Successes and challenges

I have been working on developing my scientific literacy (i.e. when having discussions in the lab or reading papers)

I tested pipettes for accuracy

I practiced reading, digesting, and presenting scientific papers and their findings

I counted cells and bacteria colonies.

I have learned how to culture cells, specifically wildtype immortal macrophages.

I learned how to PCR DNA and run gels for the purpose of genotyping, as well as, how to read the bands that we're interested in.

I practiced the relevant mouse surgery

Becoming more confident and independent in the lab. Now there are several tasks in the cell culture room and lab that I do on my own. I am really good at filling the seventy percent alcohol bottles.

Asking questions and making sure I understood procedures, findings, etc. This ensured that data was being collected correctly and that I understood the basis of the findings and the meaning of the projects as a whole.

Time management has been tricky at times, especially when I have a lot schoolwork or upcoming tests. I was also really bad at assuming how much time certain tasks would take me to complete.

Writing everything down has been the trickiest thing by far, especially when I was genotyping. If one detail wasn't documented it could take anywhere form a couple of seconds to a couple on minuets to clear up. I probably took a year off of Ed's life just through stressing over my documentation.

There were a couple other small challenges, for example, there was a period of time where I struggled with missed time sheet punches. Although it might seem insignificant, this is important to remember and practice for my future jobs.