Hailey Mullins- Placing in an academic competition/ Presenting a paper or poster at a conference

 

During the summer of 2025, I participated in the Cancer Research Immersion Student Training (CRISP) Program at Morehouse School of Medicine, where I conducted research on the biological differences between fibromas and fibrosarcomas. This project opened my eyes to the complexity of tumor biology and the importance of understanding how benign and malignant growths develop differently. My research explored how these differences could inform early detection and treatment strategies, emphasizing the value of cellular and molecular research in improving patient outcomes.

Placing 2nd in the program’s poster competition was incredibly rewarding, but the true value came from the process itself like analyzing data, interpreting results, and learning to present my findings with clarity and confidence. The key argument of my project was that precision and attention to molecular detail can lead to major breakthroughs in cancer diagnosis and care. This experience challenged my thinking by showing me that impactful research isn’t just about producing results it’s about asking the right questions, collaborating effectively, and maintaining integrity throughout the program. This internship played a major role in shaping my confidence and professional identity. Through the CRISP program, I developed not only technical and analytical skills but also a stronger sense of purpose in my work. I learned how to troubleshoot, stay patient when experiments didn’t go as planned, and celebrate small victories along the way. Presenting my research taught me how to communicate complex information to different audiences, which is an essential skill in healthcare and academia. What I learned about myself is that I truly thrive in environments that challenge me intellectually. I discovered that I love the process of connecting data to real-world impact, knowing that each step, no matter how small, contributes to something meaningful. It reminded me that science is both an art and a service, and that perseverance and passion are just as important as knowledge. 

I plan to apply what I learned from this research experience to future projects focused on cancer biology and health disparities. My time in the lab strengthened my desire to pursue research that addresses the underlying mechanisms behind diseases that disproportionately affect certain communities. In real-world terms, I want to use the critical-thinking skills and scientific methods I developed to advance more equitable, data-driven healthcare solutions. The CRISP program also taught me how to lead with curiosity and purpose, skills I will continue to carry into medical school and beyond. Whether I’m working in a lab, a clinic, or a policy space, I want my work to reflect both scientific excellence and compassion. This experience reaffirmed that my voice and perspective have value in the field of medicine, and that research can truly be a pathway toward healing and change.

Hailey Mullins