Joshua was a researcher for the Johns Hopkins during Spring Term 2023.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to do cutting-edge research at Johns Hopkins. There I worked on projects that would fundamentally change the world of transplantation. We sought to teach the immune cells within a person’s body to recognize transplanted organs as their own so that we could minimize rejection on a major scale. Although the research was still in its infancy, I was able to see what kind of research advanced-tier labs conduct while making good friends and professional connections that I plan to use after graduation.
What did you learn on your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
I learned that the researchers at the highest level still found time to enjoy themselves. Although my lab mates were among the smartest people I have met, they still found time to redo their patio, go on hikes, participate in city sports, and more. When someone is at the highest level of research, they can pursue their passions too, which is something I desire.
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
I am sure now that I want to conduct research in the future. This summer I have had an inner battle between pursuing medicine and research, but I have concluded that I need to do both. I want to still go to medical school; but now, I want to apply to MDPHD programs or programs that integrate medical research.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
would recommend this internship because it allowed me to learn how to think like top-tier researchers. In addition, I learned skills that I plan to take back with me to my lab at BYU. I was able to work with expensive equipment, and I felt that Johns Hopkins made investments in its research division which gave me a very broad education. The internship was in an east coast city which had its benefits too. I got to celebrate PRIDE in DC and visit American historical sites like Independence Hall in Philadelphia. The culture there was so accepting and loving.
Is there anything else you would like to say regarding your internship?
It really was a great experience and I would be happy to speak with anyone considering it.
