Student Profiles
Sara Blake
Tufts University, '21
Biomedical Engineering
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable experience has to be the presentation of my digital poster that I gave last summer. I experienced such strong feelings of pride and joy, on the day that I got to present. After many hours in the lab conducting experiments and analyzing data, I had created this poster that beautifully summarized all my work, and I got to explain my topic of research to both my colleagues and friends that I invited.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
YFC has exposed me to oncology, which I had not had much exposure to prior to the program, and allowed me to develop my wetlab skills. In addition to hands on research, YFC provided me with exposure to different research and careers in the field of oncology with its many Q&A presentations from specialists in the field.
Assiris Camargo
Bunker Hill Community College, '21
Engineering
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience is the annual Beyond Academia event. I get to converse with members of the scientific community that engage in work outside of academic research. It's a valuable experience to enlarge my network, ask questions, and receive advice that would otherwise be more difficult to come by.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The CURE program opened a door I never thought possible, especially as an undergraduate and first generation college student. The CURE program has enabled me to conduct cancer research in a basic science lab at a renowned institution. I have developed my skills as a research trainee from learning to use a pipet, to networking and connecting with other scientist amidst a pandemic, to confidently navigating scientific literature.
Emma Charity
The Winsor School, '21
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable experience in the program would have to be the internship experience. Getting to know my mentor, learn more about the project, and collaborate with other students has been both extremely education and fun.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The program constantly introduces you to some of the most interesting people and projects science has to offer. Through events like weekly scientific seminars, Beyond Academia, professional development, journal club and more, I have met everyone from a saxophonist turned pharmaceutical leader to a researcher studying HIV in her hometown of Puerto Rico.
Atef Fayed
Tufts University, '21
Biochemistry and Philosophy
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
The YES for CURE program has been a memorable experience in and of itself and for that every part of the program plays an important role in our development. With that being said I'm humbled to be part of the program because not only have I grown as a student of science, but I enjoy it even more thanks to CURE. The program has really solidified my passion for science when they sent me to ABRCMS (a huge conference for underrepresented minorities where I presented my research to scientists from all around the country). Some of my fellow CURE peers and I went to California and networked with many graduate school directors, researchers and other like-minded students from Alaska all the way to Puerto Rico. This experience was undoubtedly the most memorable because it made me realize how lucky I was to be part of such a devoted program. I remember sitting down with my CURE peers and during the award ceremony (where there were over 3 thousand students) the host kept calling the name of the people next to me...one after the other. Out of all those 3 thousand hard-working students are program was the strongest. That just goes to show how fortunate and blessed I was to be supported by a community of not only kind-hearted individuals, but also one of the brightest as well.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The YES for CURE program has helped me not only learn a vast spectrum of science, but also has guided us to find a science that we enjoy as well. Since the YES for CURE program is a 3-year long journey I got to develop skills and relationships. Those relationships were with researchers who were in the top of their fields whether it be cancer immunology, public health, or protein crystallography I was always learning from them. Listening to their stories, their struggles, and their drive kept motivating me to perform better in the classroom and in the lab. The program isn't really a program in my opinion. It's more than that. It's a community with everyday support. A group of friends from high school seniors to college seniors laughing together and focusing together. All led by the most loving program directors/facilitators whose altruism cannot be matched. I am thankful for being a part of the YES for CURE program it has been the best decision I've ever made!
Nischal Khatri
Medford High School, '20
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
Being able to present my summer research to all of my lab members at the Filbin lab.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The program has connected me with like-minded people who share similar backgrounds and have a passion to pursue a career in the medical field. The program also has placed in a research lab over the summer that has allowed me to understand how scientific research is conducted in the real world.
Faith Koroma-Coker
UMass Boston, '21
Nursing
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience, was the opportunity I got to meet with a professional in a position I hope to be in one day one-one-on. It was great to be able to discuss her academic and professionally journey and she also spent time learning me, and discussing my experiences, and helping me frame those experiences for grad school applications.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
YES for CURE has exposed me to so many different pathways and opportunities that I didn't know existed. I also got the opportunity to learn and refine various research techniques, for both wet and dry lab settings.
Nicholas Macedo
Excel Academy Charter High School, '21
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience is definitely my oral presentation in 2019. This was my first time presenting a project to this degree to a group of professionals and family members, so I was definitely anxious; however, I got so much support from my colleagues, and this was a great way to put my public speaking skills into practice. This presentation represented the accomplishments I achieved through the program, and I could not be more happy about it.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The YES for CURE program has allowed me to explore science through experiences I never expected to have access to. As a high school student, there is so much that I want to explore, and with the program, I've met a wide array of researchers and medical professionals who have introduced me to the different careers in science. Through my specific research, I've learned about treatment options and topics I never knew existed, and by working with such supportive mentors, I've increased my scientific knowledge and helped towards the greater mission of tackling cancer.
Christina Nguyen
Boston Latin School, '21
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience was the opportunity to present my research project at the end of the summer. I felt empowered to advocate for health equity and share the research I conducted in the lab with the world. During the summer, I not only established connections with colleagues and observed how researchers approached problems, but I also got to practice first hand how to conduct research and interpret data. As a high school student, being in an environment surrounded by like minded individuals and experts of different expertise, I challenged myself to share my ideas as well as engage in discussions. The program experience expanded my worldview on health and medicine; it was issues such as health disparities and cases such as rare diseases that gave me a drive to do change and learn more.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
This program exposed me to the expanse of endless possibilities in the research world and taught me the skills to conduct cancer research. From immunology to oncology to public health, I realized that I have many interests, but with research, I can dive in to explore unasked questions in these fields. Engaging in the program’s mini projects, such as journal clubs and experimental design groups, where we discuss scientific articles and plan experiments, I was able to collaborate with my cohort and mentors as well as learn from their perspectives. In these experiences as well as my experience in the lab, I learned that collaboration, mentorship, and resilience are all important when it comes to exploring the field of science.
Gabriela Rico
Emmanuel College, '22
Neuroscience
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable experience was getting the opportunity to fly to California and present my summer research at a national symposium (ABCRMS). My fellow cohorts and I submitted applications to go and present, upon our acceptance were introduced to a new world of being a scientist. From carrying our poster tubes through airport security to the morning of our presentation in a large ballroom full of scientists from across the world, we were entrusted with the opportunity to convey our science with the world. One of the most important factors of science is collaboration and sharing new ideas, being apart of the YFC program has provided me the opportunity to do so. Throughout the symposium we were able to make connections with the science community throughout our nation meeting recruiters from graduate programs and laboratory’s all over America all the while representing Boston and Dana-Farber.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
This program has helped me explore the field of science from the first day I stepped through the doors at Dana-Farber. We have participated in skills sets and seminars to broaden our knowledge to the realities of translating scientific research into the community. We have been mentored from experts on cancer disparities, the role of translating research into medicinal practice, and most importantly the numerous amount of career paths that are available to us within the world of science, research, and medicine. I personally have grown close to my fellow cohort and look forward to the times when our program would bring us together to share our own research experiences in the lab. In my summer research lab, I learned methods of conducting experiments at the bench including how to take care of live cell cultures! By the end of the summer I had received my own research project that I successfully carried out contributing to the present and future of science research.
Anh Nguyet Phan
College of the Holy Cross, '21
Biology
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience has to be presenting my research in the Langenau Lab over Zoom this past summer. Since it was over Zoom, I was able to invite many people who have, and continue to have, a big impact on me and my careers to my presentation. My PI from my lab this summer, my old PI from Umass Medical School, a few science professors at Holy Cross, my family, and friends were able to witness me present something that I have been working so hard on over the summer. It was a very proud moment for me, and one that I will never forget!
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The YES for CURE program helped me explore the field of science in ample of ways. The program allowed me to connect and network with professionals in fields that I did not know existed, learn new wet lab techniques, and meet life long friends. What I learn during my time in the program is invaluable and will serve me well in my future endeavors!
Isabella Saldarriaga
Emmanuel College, '21
Biology
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience was my first summer. I was placed in a dry lab environment. Previously, I had not been highly interested in a dry lab experience, but this experience completely changed my mind. I learned to appreciate dry labs and learned a whole new skillset - coding- which I likely would not have learned otherwise. It was a summer full of trying and learning new things.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The program has helped me explore so many aspects of the field of science. From dry lab to wet lab to health disparities. I have been able to learn from so many professionals. I've learned about their paths, obtained advice on how I might want to go about my future and I've learned about different career possibilities in the field of science that I did not know about before.
Daniela Torres
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, '22
Pre-Medical
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
There are too many memorable experiences to list! However, inspirational guest speakers brought in weekly have made the most impact on me by helping expand my knowledge in the cancer field.
hOW DID THE PROGRAM HELP IN YOUR JOURNEY TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE FIELD OF SCIENCE?
Our weekly meetings help expand our understanding of the cancer field. The program also placed us in incredible labs that have allowed for hands-on experiences, further allowing us to explore and gain knowledge in the science field.
Muntakia Ahsan
University of Massachusetts Boston, '20
Biochemistry
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
This program gave us opportunities to learn about different professions in the scientific research field, since many successful researchers came and talked about their jobs, which helped me to do my future plan.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
From the YES for CURE program, I got familiar with the science field, explored various opportunities. I got the opportunity of working under Dr. Erica Warner in Mass General Hospital, where I got the dry lab experience, which was very new to me. In my second summer, I have grown my confidence on the research I was doing and handled the challenges better.
Halle Armstrong
Milton High School, '20
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
Other than the amazing group of friends I've made, the most memorable part of this experience was my oral presentation. It was an opportunity to go outside of my comfort zone and share the hard work that had been done amongst my lab mates.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
My time spent in YES for CURE opened my eyes to a world of disparities impacting populations close to me. This program influenced my decision to pursue a major in public health.
Jenna Briere
Methuen High School, '19
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience was during the final presentation day at the end of the summer. Throughout the whole program, I was challenged with material and novel topics that I did not know I was capable of mastering. It was at that last day when I realized all that I had accomplished in such a short amount of time. The last day was most memorable to me because I finally realized my full capabilities if I put my everything into something. In gaining this confidence in my abilities, I am now able to push myself with the faith that I will rise to the occasion.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The field of science is one that will never be fully understood. The program allowed me to dig deep and focus in on one area of research. In high school and the first years of undergrad, the typical student is unable to explore a topic in its entirety. Instead, topics are brushed over. The program helped me to see that no matter how much time you dedicate to a topic, there will always be questions left unanswered. This is a central theme in the area of science that I discovered first hand through this experience.
Tallia Dudley
Lynn English High School, '20
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program would have to be listening to A.J. Brown's presentation during my first summer as a YES for CURE intern, I had never experienced hearing the perspective of both a cancer survivor and advocate. Hearing him speak was extremely moving and inspirational, not only did he speak of his personal experience overcoming adversity, but he also spoke to the power of minorities in medicine, encouraging us to become the doctors and scientists we hope to be, despite the odds stacked against us.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
My experiences within the lab I was placed in played a major role in my exploration of the field of science; it was full of scientists across a wide range of areas in science, including chemists, engineers, cardiologists, and more. Everyday I learned something new and it truly opened my eyes to the vast range of science professions in medicine. Outside of my lab I also gained great amounts of exposure to the research occurring in the labs of my peers as well as information given by guest speakers. The program as a whole revealed an entire new world of science to me that I would have never known if I had not been a part of YES for CURE.
Ruben Martinez
Excel Academy Charter High School, '19
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
While it'll be hard to select just one, the most memorable that pops into my mind is this one evening after finishing up one of our middle-school engagement. After finishing up, we started to make our way back to our research facilities, when we stopped to take a picture. It's so memorable because it's a symbol of how close we became after just two years.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
I had the opportunity to be in both a dry and wet lab over the past two years. By having this opportunity, it allowed me to realize that yes, I like to help people and that yes, I like to do hands-on activities. This program is allowing me to push my knowledge in the science field and is a factor in what I choose to be my major.
Hanifah Maswali
Lynn Classical High School, '20
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable experience as part of YES for CURE would have to be the patient panel that took place during my first summer in the program. Former cancer patient Mr. AJ Brown had spoken about his experience trying to receive the best care possible as a cancer patient and how being a person of color had impacted his journey. Being a POC myself, listening to his experience had only fueled my desire to change the narrative of inequity in health care standards across various racial, religious, gender, and other social groups.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
Through weekly seminars; professional development and networking opportunities; patient engagement; and of course my research environment, I felt truly immersed in the field of of biomedical science and educated on the diverse and numerous members that contribute to its operation.
Jiancheng Mo
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, '22
Doctor of Pharmacy - Business Management Minor
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience is having the opportunity to network with peers and experts in my field of interest and listen to inspirational speakers, in addition to working in a research environment.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The YES for CURE program provided 2 summers of research experience, numerous journal club and seminar events, and networking activities that have broaden my views as I explore the field of science.
Laura Perrault
Boston College, '21
Chemistry - Mathematics Minor
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience was at the Hale Reservation Center during my second summer. My small group consisted of people I knew from my cohort as well as people I had yet to interact with, and by the end of the day, I could easily say that I had made 10 more close friends than when I went in. It reminded me that whether inside the lab or out, the group of students, mentors, and directors would always serve as a support system for me. Whether this was as a person to vent to, or physically supporting me on one of the scariest ropes courses I have ever done, they were there through some of my best and worst moments during my summer. It is really encouraging to know that you have such a strong foundation of support across a variety of disciplines, and this is another reason that this program is so special.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
This program has opened countless doors for me and is an experience that will forever shape my future in the STEM field. From the mentors I was directly paired with, to the most amazing program directors, to all of the guest speakers who want to remain in contact, I feel as though my network continues to expand each day due to the opportunities given to me through the program. I am at such a better place for achieving my goals due to their help, and I know that being affiliated with this program will continue to open doors for me no matter where I end up.
Benjamin Silva
University of Massachusetts Boston, '21
Biochemistry
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
Being able to attend the 2019 Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS). At this conference, I was able to engage with many members of the research community. I met several recruiters for graduate school, and made connections with many others. This experience was an amazing opportunity to think about my next steps in my career path.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The YES for CURE program gave me the opportunity to explore the field of research. By doing this, I was able to discover that research is the career path I want to follow. I learned about my option of higher education, employment, and ability to make impact in the broad community of research. My research experience allowed me to focus in on my specific scientific interests, and gain a more clear understanding of what I want to work on in the future.
Jovan Tormes Vaquerano
Excel Academy Charter High School, '19
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
During the first year we were all extracting DNA in an exercise. I had personally never used a pipette before. I proceeded to use, approximately, a box of pipette tips for a process which should have taken half a dozen tips. I now, thankfully, know how to use a pipette.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
The YES for CURE program has challenged me to expand my scientific pursuits. From our first meeting the interconnectedness of science was highlighted as we examined how research across distinct fields cultivated advancements throughout entire branches of study. Medicine wasn’t approached as another field of study but rather a way to deepen our understanding of society and gain a view into our own humanity. Every scientific paper we examined and lab technique we learned was placed in a wider context of how research can be conducted.
Ebuka Udom
Excel Masconomet Regional High, '19
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE PROGRAM EXPERIENCE?
My most memorable program experience would be my oral presentation because I was so nervous leading up to it but it went well.
How did the program help you to explore the field of science?
I had the opportunity of being assigned to a wet lab my first summer and a dry lab my second summer. This allowed me to consider other areas of science I never thought about.