Enoelia Olivares
Class of 2005
Manhattan International High School
Topic: Early Expression of ERK in Emphysema
About:
This summer I had the opportunity and privilege of being part of the Harlem Children Society. This summer I was working at Columbia University in the building of Physicians and Surgeons. The Harlem Children Society has given me the opportunity to one of the most interesting and fulfilling experiences in the wonderful field of medicine. This program has opened my mind and a door to a more understanding future.
I heard of the Harlem Children Society through my chemistry teacher Ms. Amy Rosen who made the arrangements so I could get an interview with Dr. Sat. When I went to the interview I was very nervous because it was the first interview in my life. However, when he explained how the program worked, I forgot my nervousness and started to relax because I noticed that this was the opportunity I was waiting for. I wanted to be challenged and I had the chance that not many students have to take advantage of.
When I first went to the lab where I was going to be working for the rest of the summer, I was delighted with all the strange equipments and hundreds of bottles with weird substances inside. I also felt excited and anxious to start working even though I didn't know what I was going to be doing. Everything in the lab was unknown to me, however the researchers and scientists working at the lab made me feel welcome and understood that I was totally new to the strange world of medicine. They were always nice and willing to answer any question I had at any time. After I started working and experiencing how hard these people work, I now feel a very high level of respect towards each one of them.
Harlem children society has given me the opportunity that I was waiting for. A challenging experience, I took advantage of by learning as much as I can, things that will be very useful and great help in my future. Therefore, I am graceful for being part of this program.