Adam Ghazzali

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in a research experience that not only expanded my academic horizons but also deepened my passion for scientific discovery. I spent the summer working in the Peters Lab, focusing on gene overexpression by using CRISPR-tOE.

As a student at Xavier University of Louisiana from Kenner, Louisiana, I entered this research experience with a foundation in chemistry and biology from my coursework. However, stepping into a formal lab setting, I was both excited and a bit apprehensive about the new challenges that awaited me. This summer, I aimed to refine my laboratory skills and develop a deeper understanding of the experimental process.

Throughout the summer, I encountered both successes and setbacks, each of which provided valuable learning experiences. For instance, I was working with E. coli, a bacteria that was chosen due to its quick growth times. Turns out this bacterium will also die quickly if left for a while. Thus, resulting in me having to repeat my experiment twice.

One of the highlights of my summer was sharing my research progress at various poster sessions and symposiums. This experience not only allowed me to communicate complex scientific concepts to a diverse audience but also boosted my confidence in public speaking—an essential skill for any researcher.

Beyond the lab, I enjoyed exploring Madison Wisconsin, making the most of the vibrant local culture. I spent most of my time at an MMA gym called The Chosen Few. Here I met great people that wanted to see not just my academic but my combat career to grow as well. They treated me like family from the start.

Reflecting on this summer, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I've had. This experience has solidified my commitment to pursuing scientific research, and the skills I've gained will undoubtedly shape my academic and professional future.