Description of my STEP Signature Project:
During this past Autumn semester, I worked in Dr. Paul Janssen’s cardiovascular physiology lab. I had the opportunity to work on several different projects, focusing on both human and animal mechanisms of cardiovascular function, and gaining valuable insight into the process of scientific inquiry. Overall, my experienced focused on both hands-on data collection, as well as the process of data interpretation and drawing conclusions—both of which helped to strengthen my understanding of the scientific method.
What about your understanding of yourself, your assumptions, or your view of the
world changed/transformed while completing your STEP Signature Project?
I believe these experiences have informed my future aspirations in at least four ways. First, I value a training model in which one studies to be both a scientist and a practitioner, relying on evidenced-based interventions, and likewise contributing to the body of professional literature. I also find the intersection of research and practice to be tremendously productive and fruitful. For instance, I find myself applying an analytical mindset and research-oriented analysis to everyday problems, seeing in this great potential concerning medical diagnosis and treatment. There is also the direct benefit of simply understanding the literature on a given topic, and considering the applied ramifications of research in clinical settings. Second, I have observed several surgeries as a function of my research involvement, and this has spurred interest in the area of applied cardiology. Third, my research involvement has anchored in me the utmost respect for the sacrifice of those who have donated their hearts for the sake of others. This notion resonates with me deeply, as a key aspect of my identity is being a person who strives to help others. Fourth, I have been afforded a significant degree of independence as a researcher, and this has forged a strong ethic of conscientiousness and responsibility. Knowing that I am investigating a donated human heart, I realize that this person’s sacrifice must not go to waste, and regardless of the time of day, or duration of the process, I remain committed to seeing this project through in its entirety, to the very best of my ability–I consider this a personal duty of the researcher. I know this is a characteristic I would hope to find in my own physician, and it is a quality I will continue to embrace throughout medical training.
What events, interactions, relationships, or activities during your STEP Signature
Project led to the change/transformation that you discussed in #2, and how did those
affect you?
I feel very fortunate to be attached to a research lab in which I am personally involved in the procurement of human hearts directly from donors, used immediately in studies focusing on how medications affect cardiac functioning. What began as an introductory experience consisting of general laboratory duties has evolved into numerous and advanced responsibilities. Along with directly assessing cardiac function as a component of existing studies, I am also independently developing and conducting experiments, writing research abstracts and papers, and assisting in problem identification and resolution. In short, I am functioning as a lead team member furthering overall laboratory operations. I find that each of these newfound responsibilities has helped me to grow in my understanding of research itself, and how it can be used to benefit the world around me. When conducting experiments, I have both succeeded and failed in obtaining results numerous times, ultimately furthering my commitment to the work I am doing. When writing papers and abstracts, I am reminded of the universal effort that goes into any such work, and the fact that the small role my article plays could make a difference in someone else’s life. Lastly, I cannot fully express the personal rewards I have experienced working with this team. I believe that asking for help and guidance was something that I initially struggled with when entering this lab, but after learning all that I have through those mentoring me, I not only have come to greatly value this aspect of teamwork, but to even look forward to all the future guidance I will receive in this lab and beyond.
My lab experience stands apart from my other educational experiences due to the scope and depth of my involvement, and the magnitude of what we are accomplishing. It has been a catalyst for personal and professional growth that uniquely exemplifies my entire Biomedical Science specialization. I am awed when I reflect on the gravity of what I am doing, being respectfully present during a donor’s final moments, witnessing the surgery, and then transporting their heart to the lab, committed to doing whatever it takes by way of time and effort to ensure that this sacrifice is put to meaningful use. It is a solemn yet inspiring undertaking.
Next, the strong research emphasis is another characteristic that makes this experience uniquely meaningful, as I am developing an applied scientific skill set that will inform all that I eventually do as a medical practitioner. Additionally, I have moved past being a student and have transitioned into being a colleague and team member, with essential responsibilities, autonomy, and novel contributions that are well-received by other professionals. The relationship with my mentors, anchored in trust and willingness to challenge, has enabled me to grow personally and as a scholar, an important step in my transformation toward becoming a doctor and aspiring professional.
In sum, the diverse experiences I have been a part of through this lab have broadened my outlook on medicine, my understanding of science, my value of teamwork, and my commitment to those who helped advance this lab’s efforts.
Why is this change/transformation significant or valuable for your life?
I have known for several years now that I wish to pursue a career in medicine. While I have remained grounded in this goal since early in my academic career, I believe that certain key experiences in my life have shaped the kind of physician I aspire to be, with my time spent conducting research being one of them. First, I believe this opportunity guided me toward viewing healthcare on a more global and holistic level. Originally, I viewed care as working with an individual on a specific set of problems, and I knew very little about research, the work that is done behind the scenes, which can at so many times affect entire communities. Realizing the magnitude of what can be accomplished through research, I am confident this will remain an avid aspect of my career as a physician. Next, this was one of the most impactful mentoring-based relationships I have had to date. Experiencing both the professional and personal rewards of such a relationship has certainly made this part of academia a priority of mine, and I have already tried to echo the same mentoring styles in my own roles as a leader. Finally, this experience has allowed me to witness firsthand some of the highs and lows of healthcare. At times it was difficult, and at others it was rewarding. Through it all, I have become more aware of the emotional breadth of healthcare, and committed to working towards help others in the future.