Research Methods Course: Student Spotlight

Faith Murray '22
I have loved science ever since I took Dr. Gendreau’s freshman Biology class.
I have always been interested in music and theatre, but I was fascinated by human anatomy and biology. After that class I made sure to come back my junior year for Anatomy and Physiology, where I became fascinated with the nervous system. We were tasked in presenting the specifics on muscular, neural, and integumentary diseases, run new and stimulating labs, and perform dissections. The class was challenging and exciting in the best way possible.

Having been fortunate enough to gain a wonderful base in human life functions, I was accepted to a summer program at Tufts Medical. This program was my introduction into the medical and research world. We were given 2 lectures a day, case studies, and took part in a difficult lab based in bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics. While the virtual zoom aspects of it were difficult, we were actually able to talk to people from around the world and receive lectures from incredible professors. The most fascinating part were the lectures on neurology and physiatry, and the antimicrobial resistance lab. 

When I found out that Dr G was starting a new research methods class, I knew I had to take it. Throughout my first semester my research and lab knowledge has increased tremendously. I have learned how to properly use lab equipment, run week long experiments, and much more. After talking to friends and professors at colleges, I can see that this class is at the same level of these higher education institutions. For my final research project, I plan to continue the exciting lab I learned at Tufts medical and study the development of antimicrobial resistance. 

I am extremely thankful for the rigorous education that the HRA science department has provided me with. I will take the lessons I have learned with me as I head off to college, where I plan to study Neuroscience and Music. 
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