Thursday, May 31, 2007

finally! i'm getting paid...

When I first came to OSU, I knew that I wanted to gain some experience in a research lab. At OSU there is a well-known micronutrient research center called the Linus Pauling Institute (LPI), after the famous Vitamin C researcher. Since my major is Nutrition Science, I sought after a position in the Vitamin E lab. After about a year of attending lab meetings, then almost nine months of training and trying to prove myself, I will finally be getting paid for my work!

This has been one of the most challenging things I have ever done. The actual test I run is to measure how much Vitamin E is in a plasma or tissue sample. I do a lot of pipetting which is all about accuracy. It has taken awhile to be sufficient enough with the technique. Then, I analyze the data I collect, and try to understand the knowledge and reasoning behind the processes I am involved in. I often leave the lab with my brain completely exhausted from trying to make sense of it all. Although it is really hard work, it is very rewarding, and I enjoy the challenge.

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

time to catch up...

I only have 3 more weeks of school left, well for the spring anyway. I will only get a week off and then I am back to Corvallis for the summer session of anatomy! Honestly, I am really excited to be here for the summer. It should be very laid back, and I will get a chance to settle into my new house. That is one new thing; I am moving into a real house! No more dorms, or co-ops, but a real house with a back yard, a kitchen, a living room, and a bedroom with my own bed in it.....oh and I will get to cook for myself as well! I cannot wait.


This was very short, but I have to run to organic chemistry now...I think we are getting our midterms back today. I will write more later. Hope everyone is doing well! Much love to you all.