Hao L
Outside of the lab, Hao loves to draw and play Badminton. Through our Jumpstart program and SSRP, Hao got the chance to work on her research skills through a group project!
A senior in high school from Queens, NY, Hao got the chance to not only build her research skills through LAB Jumpstart, but also work on a project focusing on Bioenergetics as part of her SSRP experience. Her current career interests involve becoming a scientist!
What were you hoping to gain from the SSRP program?
“I wanted to experience what it was like to be hands on and work in a lab doing science experiments. I thought there would be tons of cool explosions!”
How has your participation in the program impacted your interest in science/research?
“This program influenced me to want to further pursue my passion in science and research. Even though science is very advanced nowadays, there is still so much we don’t know about, which is why I believe research is so important.”
How did the SSRP impact your personal growth?
“SSRP impacted my personal growth by teaching me valuable lessons through the friends and mentors I’ve met and the challenges I overcame in difficult experiments . . . I know that in an environment where everyone is super intelligent, it is not easy to ask for help but the mentors are all super nice and approachable. Another thing I learned is to have a good mindset in situations beyond your control.”
Even though it is easier said than done, mistakes are not something that defines a person.
What advice would you give to incoming SSRP students to help them make the most of their time?
“Be open-minded, get to know those around you, and have fun 🙂 “
Favorite Memory from SSRP?
“Cracking jokes with my friends, trying new food, and cooking food with each other”
Hao was a part of the Gene, Cell, Food (Bioenergetics) track during the Summer Science Research Program. She worked with another student on a project that focused on understanding the role different genes play in leptin-induced changes in the brain and liver.