It has been a long time. Time seem to flash past. Suddenly 11 weeks have come and gone. I think I am really getting used to staying in the lab. Been doing 14-hour work since I don't know when. Compared to previous year, I think I am a lot more interested in this project. A lot a lot more interested. Is it because of what is at stake? Is it because of all the nice people in the lab and my supportive supervisors? Is it because of my pride? Is it because I really liked this organism? Maybe it is a little bit of each. Somehow, work has turned into some kind of personal goal. The goal is no longer only aiming for first class. Rather, it has evolved to include the desire to improve myself (technically and mentally) and perhaps more importantly, to find out what is really happening in the cells. Simple thing: I love my current lab and I love my research and I really wish I could attain the skills faster and become better at it.
On another note, I think group project has revealed to me that I am intolerant of people not performing to standards despite all the help I have given. Of course I am not the best student nor do I know what is correct or perfect answer. But I think people have got to take their responsibilities seriously. 21 years old is considered an adult in legal terms. I do not care how anyone behave outside of work. But work is work and people have got to treat work seriously. Yes, they may have avoided the dreaded project, thinking they are not meant for science. But if you think a little deeper, a project is not just about training your skills in doing experiment and scientific thinking, but also your mental toughness, time management and an array of life skills (including taking responsibilities). Skipping the project actually means they are giving up a chance to learn all these skills. No doubt these can be learnt elsewhere. But since the opportunity already presented itself, why not grasp it? I think the institution has to start to see such projects not merely as training for only future scientists, but also helping to develop better individuals.
