By IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center
July 25, 2024
The IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center offers summer programs for high school and undergraduate students to explore career paths in cancer research. Students work directly with a mentor physician or researcher, while participating in a wide range of basic science, translational, and clinical research activities.
We asked Aastha Sharma a few questions about her summer experience.
Name: Aastha Sharma
School: IU Bloomington, rising sophomore
Hometown: Carmel, IN
Summer program: Educational Pathways for Cancer Research (EPCR)
Summer mentor: Sandeep Batra, MD
Career aspirations: Become a physician
I am conducting research on genetic mutations in pediatric leukemia patients. We are examining mutations in the BCOR gene and its impact on patients with acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
I was interested in participating in this program because I was eager to gain research experience while learning from experts in the field. I wanted to contribute to something that could have an impact on the field of medicine.
It was surprising how a lot of the other interns were in the same boat as me. I was a little intimidated and thought that everyone else would have more experience and would know a lot more, but it turned out we were figuring things out together.
One experience that was particularly memorable was when I was shadowing in the oncology clinic at Riley. I got to observe a spinal tap and bone marrow biopsy. I also met a third-year medical student who was on her clinical rotation, and she let me watch one of her lectures.
One piece of advice I would give to future summer program participants is to never be afraid of asking questions.
"It’s a key opportunity to inspire the next generation of translational and clinical researchers, and young physician scientists. As a teacher I enjoy and revel in my mentee’s success, achievements and pursuit of a successful career in medicine. It just makes me proud that I paid it forward and that I did my part."
- Sandeep Batra, MD
