Co-Lin Community College student, Cristina Craig (pictured above on the right) gained much more than just research experience during her summer as a Mississippi INBRE Research Scholar, she gained a professional network and mentors who helped her to understand that her dream of doing research is possible.
Cristina’s research interests began as a freshman in high school. However, since then, she had been unable to encounter mentors who could steer her in the right direction to follow her interests. After hearing about the Mississippi INBRE Research Scholars program, Cristina jumped at the opportunity to do laboratory research.
“This summer taught me that things don’t go according to the plans I make, but there are always mentors who can help me find a way to be okay with the opportunities I have and point me in another direction towards success. This internship gave me insight into research being not only a possibility but a growing and thriving community that welcomes people like me,” said Cristina.
Since completing the internship, Cristina has changed her major to biology and will continue to do research under her Research Scholars mentor, Dr. Bai at The University of Southern Mississippi. Her goal is to go to the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s M.D./Ph.D. program to study Infectious Disease or Neuroscience.
Congratulations, Cristina! We look forward to seeing your accomplish your goals!