S-STEM Scholar Jazmin Buenrostro's Blog

    Something that makes me optimistic in the long run is the advances made in science such as CRISPR. Roughly 40 years ago, the AIDS epidemic was a death sentence. Now, individuals can live "undetected" and take a pill to prevent the spread of AIDS. These advances would not have been possible if it weren't for the scientist and those who participated in the trials. We have technology that wasn't available 40 years ago; I can only imagine what we will have in another 40 (if the earth doesn't quickly deteriorate). This is one of the reasons I want to contribute with research.

    Three years ago, my knowledge of forensic science was heavily based on Bones.  I knew it was science based (thank you title), but I didn't realized how much it actually was. If you would have told the cool, care-free, pimple-filled teenage me that I would willing take chemistry. I would have laughed hysterically. I dreaded that first college level chemistry course - the first class left me with dread and doubts. However, I never enjoyed a class as much as that. My teacher made science fun! unbelievable, I know. Chemistry was now relatable and gave insight to the little things. I had TWO gen chem classes to overcome before reaching the awful and anxiety inducing ORGANIC Chemistry. It took me several attempts and a few "W's", but I managed to pass. Organic chemistry remains slightly haunting, but now I think analytical chemistry has taken the top tier.      Career wise, crime solving is not as swift or as neat as a 45 min time slot. Fingerprints are not a...