On May 30, the Nebraska Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program welcomed 26 undergraduate students from across Nebraska as they embark on their summer research experience at Creighton University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Below Carmen Pavlik, talks about her INBRE experience.
What should we know about you?
My hobbies include being active, outdoor adventures, attempting to be artistic, indulging in the delicious meals I enjoy preparing, and spending quality time with friends and family members. I currently am a comprehensive biology major at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
What or who influenced your interest in science?
The biggest influence on my interest in science is actually split between two individuals. First, my interest in human anatomy and physiology derived from the excitement of my high school teacher, Jane Leick, who was extremely passionate and enthusiastic about the topic. My research interest spurred from my mother, Jacqueline Pavlik, who works in pulmonary critical care research. When visiting her lab as a young adolescent, I became extremely curious in the scientific method and the broad range of topics available to discover.
What is it about science that excites you?
Science is a combination of creativity and exploration. I see science in two different aspects. There is the pure fact-based science that we acquire from textbooks or articles that we are tested over in the courses we take. Then there is an artistic aspect of science, where research comes in. In this aspect, you can think creatively in preparing new techniques on how to discover knowledge not found in those textbooks or articles. These different components keep science unpredictable and intriguing for innumerable years.
Will you pursue a career in science? If so, what do you hope to accomplish?
I know a career in science is in my distant future. In this career, I hope to master the ability to think creatively, communicate effectively with others regarding intriguing topics, and share the joy of discovering brand new theories that can be used by future scientists.
Why is it important to have programs like INBRE?
A program like INBRE is an amazing opportunity for hard-working students who may not have the ability to access such a broad research community and obtain vital research experience for future endeavors. This program allows undergraduate students to spend multiple hours in the lab performing techniques alongside professionals and learning tips and tricks that cannot be found in textbooks.