Dan Cook
Year in school:
junior
Major degree program/department:
biological sciences/chemistry
Faculty mentor:
Dawn Cornelison, biological sciences
How did you get involved with undergraduate research?
Early in my college education, multiple faculty members suggested that I look into doing research while on campus to not only better the experience on my résumé but to gain a better understanding of the world around me. From there, I went to my department Web site and researched the current faculty and their interests and projects. When I found a laboratory I was interested in joining, I contacted the professor and discussed the reasons for conducting research, what topics interested me and what I could contribute to the laboratory group.
On what kinds of projects have you worked?
I have worked on projects ranging from the investigation of phenotypic characteristics of wild type canine adult muscle stem cells compared to the dystrophic counterparts to the examination of how regeneration and cellular plasticity is maintained in satellite cells via a gene known as Msx1.
Why is this experience so valuable to you?
Undergraduate research has helped me to clarify and prepare for my future career by developing an understanding of research methodology in my area of study. The development of critical thinking, communication skills, creativity, problem solving and intellectual freedom has allowed me to excel beyond the laboratory and classroom into numerous areas my life. But most importantly, research gives me an opportunity to investigate relevant problems and then share discoveries with others.
What advice would you offer to other students considering undergraduate research?
The biggest challenge a student might feel is the understanding of the vast and seemingly overwhelming amount of information that occupies any specific field of study. But my advice is to not let this keep you from talking to a professor about research. You gain knowledge as you work with research. After a while of getting involved in a topic you feel passionate about, the information and understanding will come naturally.
