There are top-notch scientists that you work with ... it challenges me to live up to the standards of Mayo. To be a part of that, not just working at a lab, but to actually be part of the Mayo reputation is a wonderful feeling.

I conduct many gene re-sequencing tests. I spend part of my day doing computer analysis of the data we get. We use the computer to analyze tests so we don't have to screen each chromatogram by hand. We work with a lot of high-tech equipment. I work with PCR (polymerase chain reaction) machines and tissue culture PCR machines and I have a robot that helps aliquot DNA for me.

Part of my job involves keeping the lab running smoothly, ordering supplies, and related tasks. I work with people rotating through the lab and train them in lab procedures and techniques. I have my own research project. I love the research experience, conducting experiments and seeing how they are going to turn out. When you are in college, the experiment is all set up for you. That doesn't happen here. You have to figure out what you're doing and then see what happens. That is really exciting.

Even though a lot of people go into research or science because they don't have to work with people, you really do. You have to work well with others in your lab. You also have to be able to communicate. Even something as trivial as telling a co-worker that you are out of a certain chemical involves communication skills. I think computer skills are also helpful. There are so many tools on the computer that are easier than doing tests by hand.

I think that figuring out your career is kind of like figuring out life. The more diverse experiences you have, the better you can narrow your focus and figure out what you want to do.