Blog 4: Project Reflection and Working EQ

       (1) Positive Statement: What positive thing happen as a result of what you have completed so far?

As a result of what I’ve completed so far, I’ve been able to narrow a few things about my future down. I would like to look into the use of algae for biofuel production and stem cell growth, because I think it has a lot of unexplored potential. Also, I would like to earn a PhD so that I can be as well educated about cells and molecular biology as possible. I’m also seriously considering narrowing my topic down to biofuel production, based on all the interesting research I’ve found about it.

        (2) EQ Content:  Pick a piece of research or your interview.  How has it helped you improve your understanding of your topic?

My interview with my mentor has really helped me to build interest in my topic. I thought I’d been interested before, but after hearing my mentor talk about her work with algae cells, I’ve become really excited to continue working with her throughout the project. Thanks to the interview, I’ve also learned a lot about what it takes to be a serious scientist and how I need to prepare myself to work on this topic.

        (3) What has worked for you so far in the senior project?

So far, looking for research that explains the basic mechanisms of different types of cells has helped me to prepare for more lab work. Also, finding newer articles and information is helping me to keep up-to-date with what’s currently being done in the field of molecular biology.

        (4) What hasn't worked so far?

So far, reading extensive articles that include a lot of terms I don’t know has been a really bad idea. Some assume that the reader already is aware of certain things, so it’s required me to do extra reading that might not really contribute to my project.

        (5) Finding Value:  Based on your experience so far,

•  What possible question or questions come to mind regarding what you would like to study this year (don't list questions about the instructions relating to the senior project)? 

How has molecular biology affected science?

What is the most promising research being done in molecular biology?

•  What is your end goal this year with your senior project (don't say get a good grade or gain knowledge, put specific things you want to accomplish in your senior project this year)

I want to impress a scholarship committee and/or be offered a scholarship/grant by one of the colleges that I’m accepted into because of my research and lab work.

• Who would you like to talk to you next? Why?   

I’d like to talk to my former BIO 110 teacher, Dr. Ewers, about what she teaches in her classes. She’s a microbiologist, and she’s doing work with my mentor right now. She’s also the person that recommended me to my mentor for my mentorship hours this summer. I feel that she could offer me a lot of insight into working in a lab, as well as more information about the research that they’re conducting.