TeenLife 2024 Guide to Summer Programs

By SHAANYA PUNJABI
Tufts University
I opted for Tufts University Pre-College due to their
diverse range of intriguing programs spanning various
fields. Among these offerings, what particularly caught
my attention was a program focused on laboratory
investigations, which perfectly aligned with my desire
to delve deeper into this area of study. Moreover, the
program included exciting field trips to institutions
such as Tufts Veterinary School and Tufts Medical
School, providing me with valuable insights into the
STEM field. I believe that the Tufts Pre-College program
on laboratory investigations is the ideal platform for
me to further my studies in microbiology and laboratory
skills, which is precisely what I was seeking in a
summer program.
This comprehensive program promises to offer the
ideal blend of academic exploration and practical
experience, allowing me to pursue my passion and
expand my knowledge in the field.
Choosing the right summer program was a meticulous
process for me, involving extensive research and
attention to detail across various colleges and their
offerings. After careful consideration, I ultimately determined
that the Tufts Pre-College program, specifically
"Lab Science Investigations," was the ideal fit for me.
My decision was rooted in my profound interest in lab
experiments, which I have been unable to fully explore
at my school in Indonesia due to the lack of advanced
equipment and facilities.
Furthermore, the program's focus on antimicrobial
resistance greatly intrigued me, as I had frequently encountered
this term in the STEM field. Naturally, I was
eager to delve deeper into this topic and gain a more
comprehensive understanding of microbiology. Thus,
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I confidently concluded that this program would provide
me with valuable laboratory skills and a profound insight
into the world of microbiology.
A typical day in my program was a delightful blend of
education and enjoyment. It all began with engaging
morning lectures right after a wholesome breakfast. Our
instructor was exceptionally skilled, ensuring that these
lectures were not just informative but also incredibly
fascinating. Every day, I looked forward to these sessions
as they provided me with the opportunity to learn
something new and exciting.
The midday break for lunch was more than just a
mealtime. It became a social and intellectual gathering.
During these breaks, I had the chance to engage with
my peers, discuss the morning lectures, and share our
unique insights. These discussions not only added depth
to our understanding but also nurtured the sense of
camaraderie among other students.
After lunch, the highlight of our day began - the laboratory
sessions. Working in smaller groups, we delved into
a variety of experiments. This hands-on experience was
the highlight of the program for me. It allowed me to put
theoretical knowledge into practice, learn new experimental
techniques, and become familiar with different
laboratory equipment. The thrill of conducting experiments
and witnessing scientific principles in action was
truly exhilarating.
Post-lab time, we transitioned into "science communication"
sessions. In smaller groups, we discussed the
experiments we had just conducted and the broader
knowledge we had gained.
While every moment in the laboratory was undeniably
incredible, the most cherished memories from my
program revolve around the friendships I forged.