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18 JUNE 2023 ~ 30 JULY 2023 (6 weeks)
Investigation
Before joining the University of Hawaii Summer Science Program, I took time to reflect on my interests and goals to determine how this opportunity aligned with my academic and personal growth. With a strong interest in biology and environmental science, I saw this program as a chance to gain hands-on experience in a university research setting while exploring new scientific fields like nematology and plant pathology. Additionally, I wanted to challenge myself by working in a professional lab environment and developing new technical skills. Beyond academics, the idea of living independently, collaborating with researchers, and experiencing the unique culture and natural beauty of Hawaii made this experience even more exciting. Understanding what the program offered helped me set clear goals for what I wanted to gain from it.
Preparation:
Preparing for the program involved a lot of research, organization, and collaboration. As a group, we divided responsibilities to gather information about key aspects of the experience, including the University of Hawaii, the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR), transportation options like Biki bike rentals, and important cultural and historical sites such as Pearl Harbor and Ala Moana Center. We created and presented slides to each other, ensuring that everyone was well-informed and ready for both the academic and personal aspects of the trip. On a more practical level, we worked together to finalize packing lists, plan daily schedules, and make sure we had everything we needed for the lab and outdoor activities. This preparation phase not only helped us feel more confident going into the program but also strengthened our teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Action:
Once the program began, I put all the preparation into action, fully immersing myself in both the research and daily experiences. In the Nematology Lab, I worked on culturing entomopathogenic nematodes, conducting pathogenicity tests, and performing molecular analyses like PCR and DNA sequencing. Each task required focus and precision, and I quickly learned how to adapt to the challenges of both lab work and field research. Beyond the lab, I embraced the experience of living independently and managing my time while navigating a new environment. Exploring Hawaii’s landscapes, engaging in group activities, and interacting with researchers and graduate students provided invaluable learning opportunities. The program was both rigorous and rewarding, pushing me to be more adaptable, resourceful, and open to new experiences.
The following presentation slides provide a detailed and close look into my experiences during the program!
Reflection:
The University of Hawaii Summer Science Program was an immersive and enriching experience that allowed me to develop hands-on research skills and engage in scientific inquiry through collaboration with experts in the field of nematology. While the program included various activities, my primary focus was on my work in the Nematology Lab under the guidance of Dr. Brent Sipes and his graduate students, particularly Landon. This experience helped me grow not only in my scientific understanding but also in problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration.
The Lab Experience
The Lab Experience
Working in the Nematology Lab was one of the most intense yet rewarding experiences of the program. My primary tasks involved rearing entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) cultures, performing inoculations, conducting pathogenicity tests on weevils, and sequencing DNA to identify nematode species. One of the most exciting moments was when I successfully extracted and amplified DNA from Heterorhabditis indica and Steinernema feltiae, then analyzed the sequencing results. Seeing tangible outcomes from my work made me appreciate the precision and patience required in scientific research.
In addition to molecular work, I also worked on field applications of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) and EPN, helping to extract nematodes from soil samples and identify fungi morphologically. This hands-on exposure to both lab and fieldwork gave me a more holistic understanding of how biological control agents are studied and applied in agricultural settings. One particularly memorable moment was using white traps to isolate nematodes—an intricate but fascinating process that allowed me to see firsthand how nematodes emerge and infect hosts.
Challenges and Learning Experiences
Challenges and Learning Experiences
Adapting to the fast-paced research environment was initially challenging. Many of the protocols were completely new to me, and there was a steep learning curve in understanding techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and fungal isolation. However, with the patience and support of Landon and other graduate students, I gradually built confidence in my skills.
Another challenge was balancing the meticulous nature of lab work with the unpredictable conditions of field research. Unlike the controlled environment of the lab, field applications required adjusting to varying soil conditions, weather, and sample viability. This unpredictability taught me the importance of adaptability and troubleshooting, as no experiment ever goes exactly as planned.
Collaboration and Growth
Collaboration and Growth
One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was the opportunity to work alongside experienced researchers. Landon was especially helpful in guiding me through technical procedures and explaining the broader implications of our research. Engaging in discussions with graduate students studying under Dr. Sipes provided insights into how research in plant pathology and nematology contributes to sustainable agriculture and pest management. These conversations deepened my appreciation for scientific research and its real-world applications.
Beyond the lab, I also contributed by documenting our findings through images and notes, ensuring that we had records of our sequencing results and culture progress. This experience reinforced the importance of accurate data collection and organization in research.
Personal Growth
Personal Growth
This CAS project pushed me to develop new skills, from technical lab techniques to critical thinking and collaboration. I learned how to navigate challenges, whether it was troubleshooting a failed DNA extraction or adapting to the dynamic nature of field research. Additionally, working in a professional research setting solidified my interest in scientific inquiry and expanded my perspective on potential future career paths in environmental sciences and biotechnology.
This experience was not just about conducting experiments, it was about growing as a learner, problem-solver, and team member. The skills and lessons I gained from the Nematology Lab will continue to shape my academic and personal journey. By sharing my experiences through reflections and documentation, I hope to inspire others to explore scientific research and embrace the value of perseverance and curiosity in learning.
Demonstration:
To further share my experiences and learning outcomes from the University of Hawaii Summer Science Program, our school published a dedicated webpage highlighting the program. This webpage includes an overview of the program’s structure, student experiences, and reflections—including my own personal account. The article, titled "University of Hawaii Summer Science Program" by Wells On Nut, provides an in-depth look at the research immersion and student takeaways from the six-week journey. The full feature and my personal reflection are accessible here:
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