So Far...by Yailis Correa

 These first few weeks at TRIP have been quite interesting. I've learned how to make and dilute solutions, with the help of the amazing Dr. Leystra of course. Coming from lower-income schools, I didn't know a lot of the math I should, and our instructors have been very patient in helping me out. In these first three weeks I've prepared fly food vials, sorted flies into said vials, and ran a Negative Geotaxis Assay on flied who were stressed with soap, as well as flies treated with Vitamin E. These are words I never imagined to come out of my mouth, but I did it! It was a very new experience which I absolutely love.            

 The TRIP program has definitely pushed me past my limits - especially preparing for my independent project. After long consideration, I chose to do my project on whether natural remedies are better than opiates in pain relief. I'd like to see for myself whether flies who have been stressed can perform better under Boswellia (an Indian herb), or Poppy Seed Tea (an opiate). This project really caught my attention because my family and I all take medication for pain, but some are worse than others. Although opiates may take the pain away for a moment, it also can disorient the person, so regardless they'd still be unable to move around fluidly. Natural remedies can relieve the pain without all of the nasty side effects. 

   Besides all of the work, I've also been able to create bonds with some of my peers. We help each other with assignments, we laugh, play and overall have fun! I think bonding with other students in TRIP is essential to our success. Without support it'd be too easy to just give up. I'm grateful for the friends I've made, and excited to get closer to everyone.