Author: Colleen Muzynoski
Through the EPSCoR program I have been given the opportunity to work on several experiments. Two of my experiments dealt with variables in the effectiveness of shooting genes from bacteria into barley embryos. In the first, I compared different sizes of gold particles to see which size allowed for the best gene penetration. In the second, I compared different concentrations of DNA when shooting barley embryos to see which concentration most easily altered the barley's genetic make-up. My final experiment, unlike the other two, did not deal with altering the genetic make-up of barley. Instead, I compared the quality and growth ability of barley embryos into callus. In this experiment, I cut some embryos into halves and left some embryos whole. I then grew them into callus and compared the condition of each.
The EPSCoR program has meant a lot to me. It has provided me with an invaluable job experience. At the same time, I received a learning opportunity which is not offered through public schools. EPSCoR helped me see the importance of science in a fun, interesting, and educational way. It was a great way for me to apperceive biology and the laboratory experience. In addition to all of this, EPSCoR will be able to help me in my future. In my high school and college career, the laboratory experience will help me to better understand my lessons. In addition to school, working in a laboratory and exposure to genetics will also help me in my career. I am hoping to pursue a career in medicine. In this field I will be testing various cures for diseases. I will also be testing people to discover what sicknesses, if any, they might have. Knowing my way around laboratory procedures will help me with this. Overall, EPSCoR was a fantastic job because I was able to learn something useful to me as I worked.