Continuing with my positive experience in the Stanford Summer College last summer, I’ve decided to apply to another summer program this year. I was thrilled when I found out that I got accepted in the Columbia Summer High School Program. This is a program specifically designed for high school students that are interested in taking a rigorous three-week summer course.

Among the countless number of courses to choose from, I’ve chosen to take Genetics and Molecular Biology, as a further exploration of my interest in both biology and chemistry. At first glance, the course could sound challenging; however, in reality, the experience was enjoyable and inspiring. My favorite part of the course was the lab section. Not only had I had the pleasure to operate machines that are only seen in college and research labs, but I also had the chance to work closely with a professor, which of course made me feel professional! Although the lab reports could take me hours to write, I felt like I’ve improved a lot on my reasoning and gained a lot of valuable knowledge. The course encourages me to think at a higher level and pushes me to strive for excellence.

While I enjoyed the experience I’ve gained in the classroom, I also had the chance to meet so many amazing people. Interestingly, more than half of my classmates were international students. I, thus, became friends with students from all over the world – India, UAE, France, Netherlands, England, China, and more. I had the privilege to study with competitive students and also to enhance my cultural values through them. This program, in the end, ensured my interest in natural science and gave me a clearer view of my future.

Having such a pleasant experience in New York, I cannot help but appreciate how much Stevenson has aided me along this path. I’ve had so many positive experiences with the science department in Stevenson – whether it is going to the beach to learn about organisms or making peanut brittle from beakers for Christmas. Having taken biology and chemistry for the past three years, I look forward to explore in world of physics! As the opening of the school is right around the corner, I, as a senior, will no doubt be working my hardest to stay on top of my role as a student, an athlete, a leader in Stevenson.