Addison Krotz reports that her first week attending the Summer Challenge program at Boston University has been “nothing short of extraordinary.”.
“If I had to describe the experiences I’ve had inside and outside the lectures and labs in one word, it would be memorable. I’ve learned an incredible amount in just one short week—from how medicine works in our bodies to the anatomy of various body systems. I can confidently say that this program is going to be unforgettable,” Addison says.
“My morning Chemistry of Medicine class has introduced me to a wide range of new and fascinating topics. We’ve had a number of engaging lectures covering everything from functional groups and drug structures to drug discovery and how different medicines travel through the body. During lectures, we are required to take notes and ask questions to ensure a solid understanding of the material,” Addison adds.
In addition to the lectures, Addison’s class also participated in lab work experiments that included dissecting a sheep’s heart and pig kidney.
“We conducted an experiment using glow sticks to test and evaluate the antioxidative capacity of different substances. We carefully measured and weighed the substances and added them to the glow stick solution to observe whether the light dimmed or extinguished. If the light faded, it indicated that the substance had high antioxidant properties,” Addison says.
“On Friday, we completed another lab, and this time, the lab involved the extraction of a cardiovascular drug. We used ether and vacuum filtration to determine the mass of Lovastatin present in the pills. Outside of lab time, we are required to prepare pre-lab assignments for the following day’s experiment. After each lab, we answer follow-up questions and compare our results with classmates,” Addison explains.
“In my afternoon Anatomy and Physiology class, we focus on a different body system each day. The first half of class is lecture-based, during which we learn how each system functions and become familiar with key vocabulary. After the lecture, we split into groups for hands-on activities where we label and identify the components of the system discussed. My professor sets up human-like models for us to use in these activities,” Addison explains.
When not in class, Addison participated in bonding activities with her classmates.
“On Monday, we had a “kickoff” event where we were encouraged to talk and learn about each other. I’ve made some incredible connections, especially with my roommates. During free time, I’ve explored local shops with friends and played soccer at the track with other students. Everyone here has been kind and welcoming. It feels like everyone wants to be friends with everyone,” Addison reports.
“Overall, this first week has been absolutely amazing! Feeling welcomed from the moment I arrived on campus eased my nerves considerably. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the support of the faculty and graduate students. Having two different classes has also helped me in understanding and getting a better idea of what college life has waiting for me. Being in such a positive environment while studying a field I’m passionate about has helped me feel more confident about my future. I can’t wait to experience another week here!
Week Two — Presentations & Building Friendships
Addison reports that her second and final week at Boston University was “just as great, if not better, than the first.” Over the weekend, Addison explored a shopping outlet with a friend she met in the program, and visited the shops on Newbury Street with friends. “On Sunday, the open Newbury Street was the perfect escape. I walked the street with friends and explored local shops and pop-up tents that were set up along the way. It was a relaxing and fun way to enjoy the city before the start of another busy week,” Addison says.
“In Chemistry of Medicine, we completed two labs: one on the synthesis of oil of wintergreen and another on the synthesis of acetaminophen. Oil of wintergreen, also known as methyl salicylate, is made through a reaction between salicylic acid and methanol. To make the reaction work, we had to use a strong acid catalyst, such as sulfuric acid, and apply heat. Once the reaction was complete, the final product had a peppermint scent due to the formation of methyl salicylate. The acetaminophen lab was the most challenging. It required a lot of patience and precision. We mixed solid p-aminophenol with an exact amount of water and acetic anhydride. After heating it in a water bath and waiting for the mixture to dissolve, sparkly off-white crystals began to form. We measured the mass of our product and performed a TLC (thin-layer chromatography) analysis to test its purity. Our homework included writing a lab report and calculating the percent yield of both substances,” Addison reports.
“Anatomy and Physiology remained engaging, though it became more focused on lectures. We did not do any dissections over the week because we had a lot of material to cover. The lectures focused on the nervous system, muscular system, and skeletal system.. After each lecture, we continued to participate in hands-on activities to help reinforce what we had learned. Human models were set up each day so we could identify and study the structures of the system we were focusing on.
The week ended with presentations for both classes. “For Chemistry of Medicine, my partner and I chose to research a cancer drug called Sunitinib. In Anatomy and Physiology, my group presented on the different types of cardiomyopathy since we all had a strong interest in the cardiovascular system. Although I was nervous about speaking in front of others, both presentations went very well. It was a great way to work with people I had gotten to know, and the experience helped challenge me and step out of my comfort zone,” Addison says.
After class activities provided students with an opportunity to socialize and included a trivia night, and a dance for all students.
“On our last night, the program organized a dance for all the students to attend. At first, my roommates and I didn’t really want to go to the dance, but it ended up being one of the best nights we had. It was a spectacular event to have one last fun night with the friends we made during the two weeks. We all got to dance and sing at the top of our lungs and forget, for just a few hours, that our time together was ending. As a group we all agreed to just enjoy the night as best as we could,” Addison says.
“These two weeks were some of the best I have ever had. I learned so much about medicine and the human body, and I built lasting friendships with people from all over the world. I am so thankful I had the chance to attend BU, and I will carry this experience with me for the rest of my life. I cannot wait to see what the full college experience has in store for me,” Addison adds.
We are happy that your time at Boston University was a wonderful learning experience, and wish you much success in your future studies. Great work, Addison!
>> Read Addison Krotz’s Final Report (PDF File, 75 KB).
>> Learn about the other students’ experiences in the GFF Scholarship Program.
