Outstanding Student Experiences in Undergraduate Research

Our students have had rewarding research experiences at Edmonds College, and they have leveraged those experiences to achieve success in future research endeavors. Read personal stories from some of our outstanding student researchers:

"I cannot say enough about my time in the Biology Department at Edmonds College. As a mom and wife making a large career change, my journey at Edmonds has allowed me to discover that my passion lies with science, with the Biology department to thank for that."

Ashley B. - Student, Edmonds College

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My initial apprehension going through the biology series was that I was going to have a hard time conforming to a traditional classroom setting but was surprised to find a welcoming and supportive environment that was about fostering active learning. I consider myself a kinesthetic learner and I found that to be key to my success when learning about Cabbage White Butterflies and applying it with hands-on opportunities inside and outside the classroom.

The skills that I gained during this time have real world applications that will continue to benefit me from my personal life to my end goal of becoming a Medical Lab Scientist. Skills such as critical thinking, where going through the research process allowed me to effectively evaluate information objectively and reach thoughtful conclusions based on evidence. Communication and problem-solving skills that were enhanced due to the collaboration needed working with teams and faculty mentors to reach your research goals. And lastly, that it is okay to be wrong. The research process showed me that mistakes are part of the learning process and possibly where the most learning happens. I found it invaluable to be in an environment where mistakes are celebrated rather than faulted.

Overall, participating in the Edmonds Undergraduate Research created a sense of camaraderie amongst my fellow classmates that allowed us to bring a level of creativity and free thinking to science that was refreshing to see and be a part of and am grateful for the opportunity to showcase that work as I continue my educational journey.

"Venturing into the field to search for caterpillars and catch Cabbage White Butterflies in Seattle's P-Patches added an element of adventure and fun that enriched my overall experience at Edmonds"

Jennifer L.- Student, University of Washington

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"The Edmonds Biology Department had a profound impact on me both academically and personally. After returning to school after a long hiatus and a change in career direction, I was admittedly intimidated by the prospect of entering an unfamiliar environment and of failure. As I began, I found myself under the guidance of several faculty members of the Biology Department who provided me with excellent instruction, invaluable support, and access to opportunities and
experiences that further solidified my love for Biology and allowed me to achieve immense personal growth."

"At Edmonds, I had the privilege of enrolling in courses of exceptional caliber. These courses went beyond mere memorization, placing a strong emphasis on critical thinking, evaluation, and creative application. Most importantly, they introduced me to real-world learning and independent research as vital tools for achieving a comprehensive understanding and practical experience. When challenges arose, the instructors were there to provide insight, advice, and encouragement. There is also a great sense of community within the Biology Department that helped me foster great personal relationships with my fellow peers (especially my fantastic lab
mates) and deeper connections with professors. Overall, the culmination of these factors has bolstered my confidence in my ability to thrive as I progress in my academic journey. This summer, I had the privilege of volunteering in research at the University of Washington Buckley Laboratory. The skills I acquired through Biol 212, 213, and Undergraduate Research were readily applicable, and I felt grateful for the tool kit that the Edmonds Biology Department helped me construct."

"Furthermore, my journey at Edmonds was marked by not only academic growth but also sheer enjoyment. Collaborating with my lab mates in various research projects, I shared laughter and forged lasting friendships. Field trips offered unique opportunities to do things such as observe fungi and explore the fascinating fish specimens at the Burke Fish Collection. Venturing into the field to search for caterpillars and catch Cabbage White Butterflies in Seattle's P-Patches added
an element of adventure and fun that enriched my overall experience at Edmonds."

"I am currently a transfer student at the University of Washington in Seattle, where I am dedicated to pursuing a path in research. My long-term aspiration is to gain admission to the University of Washington School of Medicine with the goal of specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN). Ultimately, I aim to become a reproductive endocrinologist, driven by my passion for delving into the uncharted territories of sex-specific hormones and women's health."