West LA Times

The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at UCLA recently hosted nearly 100 high school students from Los Angeles for a two-day event on October 15 and 16, coinciding with Stem Cell Awareness Day. The initiative is part of the center's Outreach Program aimed at sparking interest in science among students from diverse backgrounds.

Students from East Los Angeles Renaissance Academy and Odyssey STEM Academy participated in the event, which included tours of research labs, interactive panel discussions, and demonstrations by undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and professors. The program seeks to demystify college life for visiting high school students.

During the visit, participants observed various scientific processes such as examining water bears under microscopes and witnessing a 3D bioprinter used in stem cell therapies. Cristobal Duran, a freshman at Odyssey STEM Academy, expressed his excitement about learning new aspects of science: “I liked seeing the water bears under the microscope and learning that they’re pretty much immortal,” he said.

The tours provided insights into ongoing research efforts aimed at developing therapies for ovarian cancer, blood cancers, and prostate cancer. Students engaged with white blood cells, tumor samples, and advanced lab equipment while understanding each lab's objectives. Additionally, creative activities like making DNA sequence bracelets were part of the experience.

Shirley Zhang, a graduate student who guided tours through Dr. Andrew Goldstein’s lab noted the importance of introducing young people to scientific careers: “It’s really important to show the younger generation of future scientists what the day-to-day life of a scientist is like," she remarked.

A Q&A session allowed students to ask questions ranging from ethical considerations in research to practical advice on choosing college majors. Nicole Bottomley from Odyssey STEM Academy emphasized how such experiences can inspire students: “Not everyone is going to become a scientist," she stated but highlighted that it provides an opportunity for young people to explore their interests.

For Alessandra Solano, another participant from Odyssey STEM Academy aspiring to be an oncologist, visiting hematology labs was particularly impactful: “My favorite part of today was going to the hematology lab,” she shared.