The Young Scientist Spotlight series features our former students involved with our Treehouse UCSC Bioinformatics Immersion (TUBI) program, where students gain real-world work experience as researchers in a supportive environment, contributing to Treehouse bioinformatic projects! This week, we are catching up with former TUBI student Valeria Barrera Verduzco as she talks about how TUBI has impacted her research interests.
Interview by Krizia Chambers
How did you get introduced to TUBI?
I got introduced to TUBI by a friend! I remember I was freaking out about the application because my friend told me 3 days prior. But I was really excited to join such an interesting program that I’d never heard of, and I’m so glad I got to experience it. I heard a lot of people talking about it in my classes as well, but until I read the application, I knew I wanted to do it.
Can you briefly describe your experience with TUBI? What did you gain from participating in the program?
My experience with TUBI was very joyful. The cohort was an extremely safe one for all of us, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I made new friends, and although it was intimidating, everyone treated me with patience because everyone was struggling! I got to learn so much stuff about bioinformatics and it sparked my interest in coding and prolonged my interest in genetics.
What advice would you like to lend to the new cohort of TUBI students?
My advice for the new cohorts is to be patient with yourself. It takes time to get a hang of it. Do not compare yourself to others! You are on your own journey; it’s YOUR experience that matters, and everything will be okay! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your cohort and instructors will help you no matter what. Lastly, have fun! It goes by really fast. One day, you’re learning how to use the terminal; the next, you’re all done! Enjoy every day at a time, and remember that your work is helping others.
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