It’s a Wrap! by Masa Murry

WOW… Time flies when we’re having fun; I remember my first day at TRIP as if it were yesterday. After starting, I realized how little I really knew about working in a lab and how naive I was for believing that everything I outlined would go exactly as planned. Of course, I am now more aware of the reality that more often than not, failures are going to occur… and that’s okay. Every mistake I make is a chance for me to learn and improve myself.

And improve, I have.

With the ever-increasing usage of antidepressants in the world, I thought it would be interesting to use antidepressants, as both adults and teenagers consume them. In fact, more teenagers start using antidepressants as early as high school, and it is possible that hindered fertility rate could be a long-term effect. Therefore, over the last several weeks, I’ve tested whether Paroxetine, an antidepressant, could reduce fertility and worsen the health of progeny; then, could natural supplements, specifically Red Clover, counteract that impact?

After several trials of data, my conclusions proved me partially right AND partially wrong. My hypothesis was correct in the sense that Paroxetine decreases fertility, while Paroxetine WITH Red Clover together would increase it. However, surprisingly, neither Red Clover nor Paroxetine affected the health of the progeny at all. Even more shocking, Red Clover ALONE negatively affected fertility, which was the exact opposite of what I had thought would happen.

At the end of the day, this project has taught me how to be independent, but more importantly, I have a better understanding of my weaknesses in communication. While I still have a lot more to learn, TRIP has definitely paved my path for the future.

Several opportunities and experiences arose with TRIP, as I formed friendships ranging from students from several different high schools around this area, to mentors that guided and supported me in this. This internship has truly been an incredible journey, and it is sad to see it approach its end. And while all good things must come to an end, I am thankful that I was a part of this one.

(: It’s been a blast, guys. Here’s to everyone who made this a great adventure!