During my Laidlaw Research Summer, I learned not only how to navigate the research process, but also how to delegate tasks, manage my time, and modify my research question so that I can answer it completely. I learned the most about the research approval process, specifically in relation to IRB and how to create a study that does not put others at any risk. One positive outcome that was unexpected from my research is that my survey received over 300+ responses. I originally assumed I would get approximately 30 responses, however, I was really proud of my outreach skills. Throughout the summer, my research has also changed to become more narrow. Since public health data related to cancer is confidential health information, I learned that I could not analyze data by individual address and, instead, had to conduct my research within the bounds of zipcode. This was a challenge, but has definitely prepared me for further research.
This summer also allowed me to get closer with my mentor. Through meeting weekly, I have been able to learn more about her research and the ways in which she approaches research. Since I really look up to her, I feel grateful that I have been able to gain firsthand knowledge on her research process.
While preparing for my final paper and poster, I will need to analyze my data using GIS in order to finally establish my boundary of impact. This will allow me to find out those most impacted and, thus, have final findings. I am also very interested in drafting my poster in a visually interesting way, combining my passions for public health and architecture.