67 Research Reflection by Carmen Nieznanski

Faculty Mentor: Daniel Leung (Internal Medicine, University of Utah)

My undergradute research experience has been extremely fulfilling. As I’ve worked on this project with fellow peers and colleagues in the lab under the mentorship and supervision of Dr. Daniel Leung, I’ve developed a love and a passion for research. Actively participating in this project has made me realize that my future career would lack fulfillment if research wasn’t permanently a part of my life as a doctor and a professional. It is now my aspiration to apply to the University of Utah’s MD/PHD program so that I can continue to learn and apply scientific tools to answer important questions in the field of medicine with the help of other professionals in the field. Without this, I cannot imagine being a great and proficient doctor. During my time in the lab and as I’ve diligently applied myself to this project, I’ve gained invaluable experience and I’ve learned a crucial skill that will forever aid me in all future pursuits, especially in medicine: the skill of humbly and passionately ask questions. I’ve always wanted to be the kind of doctor who remains humble and curious no matter how much education I accumulate. Research is the ideal environment to exercise those skills. I’m extremely excited to pursue research for the rest of my career and I can thank my time as an undergraduate researcher for igniting that passion and excitement.