Libby Hansen

I am a junior in high school with a passion for biology and an interest in pursuing a path in medicine. I have some experience in science research from my science classes and would love to broaden my knowledge. This year, I am doubling-up my science classes with biology and astronomy/astrophysics and plan to double my science classes next year with possible courses such as biotech and microbiology. I hope to study science in college and ultimately pursue a career in STEM.

My interest in science and medicine has developed as I have watched my oldest brother in his studies as a MSTP student. On many opportunities  visiting him at Washington University in St. Louis, he tells us stories about his work, both as a med student and in the lab while pursuing his Ph.D. in genomics. One particular memory that stood out was when he brought me to his lab for a mock experiment. We used restriction enzyme analysis and gel electrophoresis to forensically investigate which DNA sample matched the “DNA left at the crime scene.” As the gel ran, my brother explained how understanding the sequence of the genome can be useful to forensics but also to diagnosing and curing human disease. This experience, and his stories, have motivated me to continue to build my science knowledge base so someday I can work in a science lab or become a doctor.