The Trials and Tribulations of Science

Hi everyone! My name is Kayla Kinsler, and I am one of the 15 participants in the TRIP program. I am a night owl, and when school is in session, I am up all night studying which leaves me exhausted for the next day. I am not a fan of coffee so this gave me the idea to test the effect of energy drinks (which would be my next option) on the flies. 

On the first week of independent projects, I tested the effect energy drinks had on metabolism using 15 males from each of the 4 vials I had (control, monster energy drink, 5 hour energy drink, and red bull). I came up with the idea to sleep deprive my remaining flies by sticking them in front of the light, and I planned to test their memory to simulate me staying up all night and then taking a test the next day after drinking an energy drink. However, this was a huge mistake because all the flies ended up dying in the light, and I realized that I had no control in this experiment that I could've compared results with, which is a huge problem

When I came into the lab the next day to find my flies dead, I felt extremely defeated and like I had failed myself and Dr. Purdy. The TRIP staff was nothing but supportive and Dr, Purdy even gave me the idea to try testing starved flies reaction to short term exposure to the drink in petri dishes. That has been my experience so far at TRIP. It has been nothing but continuous support from each of the wonderful staff members, and I feel as though everyone is rooting for my success. I have also had the opportunity to learn various lessons on lab techniques and science in general. It is truly a family environment, and I am excited to come into the lab each day, and I am sad to see it end, but I am also excited for those who are to come after me.

Author: Kayla Kinsler