By KORPO SELAY
One of the biggest things I’ve taken from this experience is learning to be okay with not knowing everything. Since this is also my first time doing oncology research, almost everything felt new, techniques, terminology, even how to design questions around tumor development and progression. At first, I was hesitant to ask questions because I didn’t want to seem unprepared, but I quickly realized that research is about constantly learning, being curious, and being open to correction. I've gotten more comfortable asking questions, admitting when I don't understand something, and being willing to make mistakes and try again.
Another big area of growth for me has been troubleshooting. Unlike classroom labs where the protocols are usually set and outcomes are known, working in a real research setting taught me that experiments don’t always go according to plan. I’ve learned to think on my feet, stay calm when things go wrong, and brainstorm alternative approaches. Whether it’s dealing with unexpected results or adjusting an experiment mid-way, I’ve started to appreciate how much creativity is actually involved in doing science.
One of the most valuable technical skills I’ve developed is learning how to analyze data with purpose. It's not just about running statistical tests but also asking what story the data tells and how to communicate that story clearly. Working on real data from animal studies, I’ve had to think about how to connect the results to broader questions in cancer research, and how small details can make a big difference in interpretation. This has helped me develop stronger critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills.
Being surrounded by researchers from so many different backgrounds has also been eye-opening. I’ve had conversations with scientists who came into this field from unexpected paths, some didn’t start in biology at all. That diversity of experience has helped me feel more confident about my own journey. It reminded me that passion and curiosity are powerful drivers, and that there’s no one “right” way to become a researcher.
This internship has also helped me get a better sense of what I want in my future career. As I begin thinking about PhD programs, I now know what to look for in a program, what kinds of environments I want to be part of, and even what lab culture matters to me. The experience of working closely with a team of mentors and lab mates taught me to reflect not only on the science itself but also on how collaboration, communication, and support shape the research experience.
One of the more interesting parts of my experience was seeing how diet and gut microbiota play a role in cancer risk and development—something I hadn’t thought much about before. Being involved in a project that looks at how maternal obesity can influence offspring health through changes in the microbiome helped me see how interconnected everything is in biology. It also made me realize how research can translate to real-world health issues that affect so many people.
There were moments during this internship where I felt challenged and unsure, but I’ve come out of it more confident in my ability to learn and adapt. I’ve developed not only technical skills but also a deeper sense of resilience and self-trust. This experience has shown me that research is not about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to ask hard questions, stay curious, and keep going even when things get messy.
I would encourage anyone thinking about applying for SURE to go for it—even if you don’t have prior research experience. You might already have skills from classes or other experiences that are more relevant than you think. And be open during the process—talking to different labs, even ones you didn’t think you'd be interested in, can lead you to something unexpectedly exciting.
Overall, this internship has been one of the most impactful parts of my academic journey so far. It’s helped me grow as a student, a scientist, and a person. I’m walking away with a better understanding of what research involves, a clearer sense of where I want to go, and a deeper appreciation for the scientific process.