During the past month we have created many memories here in Austin both inside and outside our research labs. We have been able to spend time together to enjoy what Austin has to offer, work hard and diligently in order to learn what is required to do research, and learn together through our seminars and workshops. While we all come from different places, backgrounds, and circumstances, I feel that our focus on research and our goals have helped us understand each other.
Our journeys are barely starting and there is a lot of work down the road. The more knowledge I gather the more I learn there are so many things I still need to learn. However, with the help of my mentors I have been able to progress quickly and begin the first step of my research career.
There is also more to our summer than just research. We were all told about how amazing the city is and got to experience that ourselves. From exploring the city, getting caught in the rain, playing together in the game room, going to the social events, using public transportation and getting lost, swimming, and eating together. All that time we have spent together making memories and getting to know each other has helped me grow as a person.
It is easier to get through the difficult parts of my summer because I don’t have to go through them by myself. I am grateful for this opportunity as I continue to learn about research and about life itself.
-Jose Perez, University of Texas at El Paso
