explore the scientific research process

Post date: Aug 13, 2013 9:46:03 PM

I am currently in post-internship-depression. The History of Life program has been an amazing journey of personal growth and discovery in science. I learned so much (about programming, research, ostracods) and met so many outstanding people who share my interest in science. After two full days at home, with absolutely nothing to do, I can't help but wish that the program lasted a bit longer.

During the final week of the program, interns were able to show off their hard work through poster and PowerPoint presentations. Although I already knew what fellow History of Life interns were working on, listening to the general program interns speak was a whole new experience. Last week, we had just toured their laboratories - which was extremely helpful when listening to them present. We collected data through primary literature sources; they used top-notch scientific equipment (such as the Shrimp) to gather information for their professors. I realized that interns of both programs were able to explore the scientific research process, and I hope that everyone - like me - will take away something valuable from this experience.

For now, I will say goodbye to this beautiful campus and all of the wonderful people I've met. But it won't be long. We didn't say a single "goodbye" on the last day - because in a few months, we will reunite at the American Geophysical Union conference. Thank you, Stanford, for this wonderful way to spend my summer.