The one thing that has dramatically shaped my college trajectory here at Hope College is the SHARP undergraduate research program. After my freshman year of school, I realized I had no idea what I wanted to do post graduation. When enrolling at Hope, I wanted to pursue medicine. However, I realized I no longer wanted to be in the medical industry. I had no idea if I wanted to remain in the STEM field, or if I wanted to follow another calling of mine. However, being part of the SHARP program opened my mind to what is possible within the chemistry field.
My first semester of college, I began to really enjoy my general chemistry course, something I never expected. I developed a close bond with my professor in the class. She began to mentor me as I was beginning to discern what majors I wanted to pick. One thing she mentioned was how amazing the undergraduate research programs here at Hope are. From that point forward I made it my goal to be part of research as soon as possible.
I was accepted into the SHARP research program for chemistry later in my freshman year, which is a 10-week long paid research experience in the summer. During this program, I had the opportunity to live on Hope’s campus in the summer while getting hands-on, real-world experience of what the chemistry field looked like.
SHARP Program Experience
Within those 10-weeks, I began potentially life-changing research alongside my professor, Dr. Turlington. I met with countless professionals in the field and got to tour many major employers such as Pfzier and Gentex. I had the opportunity to give a presentation on my research, along with getting chemistry symposium experience. Along with that, I built so many connections with countless facility members, industry professionals, and other Hope College students who share the same passions as me.
Going into my sophomore year, I now have a clear picture on what I want to do in the future within the chemistry field. I give all my credit to my experience within the SHARP program. If you have the opportunity to pursue such an amazing opportunity, I highly encourage you to do so.