When searching for a research laboratory during my sophomore year of high school, it took quite a bit of time—and even more e-mails. I searched practically everywhere, and right before the deadline of the frustrating science fair paperwork I found my first position.
“I have less than a week” was how I began my e-mail to the customer service department of a local hospital. Yes, the customer service department; who knew how useful they could be?
After working in my local hospital’s microbiology laboratory and developing my nascent curiosity in research, I had finally established a foundation that would allow me to pursue my investigative interests. This foundation proved to be useful as other research opportunities came much more often and much more quickly. I began spending my afternoons performing experiments, rushing out of the high school parking lot to avoid the traffic and make it to the laboratory on time. My nightly homework would accumulate, but the thought of promising results constantly tantalized.
As my senior year science teachers delved into the specifics of our natural world, I realized how beneficial my research truly was. I was able to use my laboratory knowledge in my science classes, but more importantly I was able to use my new science knowledge in the laboratory. I loved discussing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) not only due to the fascinating application of these techniques, but also because I had the opportunity to actually use these innovative technologies.
Acknowledging the true impact research has had on my life, I knew I had to do more—I wanted to extend these extraordinary experiences I had to others. Following months of work and connecting with other researchers, I founded YouResearch, a non-profit organization designed to promote both STEM and humanities research opportunities through a unique, interactive platform that connects high school students with professors and advisors who are dedicated to assisting them. Altogether, the experienced undergraduate researchers on our team have published much of their research, signed patents for their inventions, won Best of Fair at the International Science and Engineering Fair, and attended some of the most prestigious research programs in the world. Through the program, we strive to help high school students apply the science they have learned in the classroom, much like I did, and assure a powerful network of researchers in the future. By helping provide these students with the many advantages of research, we hope to empower these aspiring scientists and contribute to the profound ingenuity we are seeing in our world today.
Please help us promote the YouResearch program by liking our Facebook page, sharing our website, reaching out to local high schools, donating to the program, and more. If you would like to learn more about the program, feel free to visit our website: www.YouResearch.org.