This week was important for a number of reasons. The most obvious was, of course, the research showcase Wednesday evening. Additionally, I got back in touch with my mentors to begin setting up mentor visits, and I finished my original work.

 

The showcase was extremely exciting. It was very rewarding to be able to compile all my work this year into my portfolios and display board. I finished gluing and matting all aspects of my display board Monday so that I would be ready for the showcase. In addition, I practiced small talk in preparation for the showcase. I got to the facility about twenty minutes early after stopping to pick up dinner so that I would be able to get a good spot for my display board. Once the public began to come in to see the boards, time moved very quickly. Although neither of my mentors were able to attend due to their schedules this time of year, I was able to talk to many members of the community and network with professionals in medical professions. In addition to getting to share my work with people I knew, I was able to talk to new people. I really enjoyed getting to explain my topic to people who seem genuinely interested, and it was fun to get to talk to prospective ISM students, because I remember being where they are. My feet and voice were beyond tired by the end of the night, but I enjoyed the experience and getting to share my work.

 

Although the showcase was the main focus of the week, I also got back in touch with my mentors Monday to see if there was a time we meet in order to discuss the final project and mentor handbook. Dr. Wetzel responded to get back in touch with her february, as she was still very busy. Dr. Phillips has not replied as of now, so I will get back in touch with them both February, when I assume their schedules will begin to calm down. I do need to begin thinking about a final topic, but I assume I can do some more research now while I wait to schedule a meeting.

 

Finally, I finished my original work. I wanted to have most of the analysis done my the showcase so that I would be able to talk with members of the community about my work. By Thursday, I only had to write my discussion and research marketing strategies that would make sense with the results of the survey to appeal to the population of the Dallas area and increase influenza  vaccination rates. I finished the research paper Sunday evening, and finalized the entire original work and submitted it Monday. I am beyond relieved to have it done, and I feel very accomplished. I think already having written a full research paper as a Junior will have a very positive impact when I am applying to colleges and other opportunities, and continuing my educational career.