In this second post of my CURIE Academy series, I’m excited to take you beyond the application process and onto Cornell’s beautiful campus. From the nervous excitement of meeting my fellow scholars to participating in hands-on workshops and field sessions, this week was packed with unforgettable moments that brought engineering to life. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to spend a week immersed in engineering at one of the nation’s top universities, join me as I share my first impressions, highlights of daily experiences, and the lessons that will stay with me long after CURIE Academy.
Daily Recap
Day 1: Arriving and Settling In
The first day of CURIE Academy began with excitement and anticipation as I arrived at Cornell University’s beautiful campus. Check-in was scheduled between 12:00 and 5:00 PM at the Robert Purcell Community Center (RPCC), but since I arrived early, I had plenty of time to soak in the energy of the day and meet some of my fellow participants.
Check-In and Getting Settled
Check-in was a smooth process. We entered RPCC from the back entrance, following signs for CURIE Academy. The program staff were warm and welcoming, and after receiving my room key, I was escorted by one of the Program Assistants (PAs) to my dorm. The dorms were cozy and modern, with two students sharing a room. They even provided bedding, which was a thoughtful touch, though I’d brought my own for extra comfort. On my desk, were two Cornell Engineering t-shirts, a Cornell water bottle, a sleek engineering pen, my lab notebook, and enough candy to fuel a week of intense learning. After getting settled and changing out of my travel clothes, I headed back to RPCC to hang out with the other scholars while waiting for everyone else to arrive.
Connecting Over Card Games
Since I had some time before dinner, a few of us gathered to play card games like Uno. It was an easy way to break the ice and start building friendships. Everyone I met was incredibly kind, and I was amazed by how far some of them had traveled—from all corners of the U.S.—to attend CURIE Academy. Each person had their own unique story and aspirations, which made our conversations engaging and interesting.
Once everyone was checked in, we had time to hang out with our assigned PA groups. This was our chance to get to know the students we’d be spending most of the week with. Our PA led us on a short walk around Cornell’s stunning campus, where we got our first glimpse of Triphammer Falls, a breathtaking waterfall right on campus. It made me pause and appreciate how lucky I was to be there.
The Welcome Dinner
At 5:00 PM, we gathered for the Welcome Dinner, which marked the official start of CURIE Academy. The room was filled with scholars, staff, and faculty. The food was pretty good, and as we ate, we listened to a program introduction that outlined what the week would entail. This dinner was not only a warm welcome but also our first exposure to the collaborative and supportive environment that defines CURIE Academy.
Project Introduction: Programmable Plants and IoLT
After dinner, we had our project introduction on Programmable Plants and the Internet of Living Things (IoLT). This session laid the foundation for the research we’d be doing throughout the week, exploring innovative ways to connect technology and biology to solve real-world challenges. The presentation was very interesting and sparked my excitement for the days ahead.
Team Bonding Before Bed
To cap off the evening, we regrouped in our PA groups for team bonding activities. We played fun games designed to build camaraderie and get to know each other, and by the end of the night, I felt like I’d already made genuine connections with my peers. It was heartwarming to see how quickly we had started to feel like a team, even though we’d only just met. As the day wound down, we headed back to our dorms to rest at around 8:30 PM, had our daily RHD dorm meeting until 9:30 PM, and then hung out for a while before heading to bed.
Day 2:
Field Sessions
The morning started with a session led by Professor Nils Napp, where we learned about the field of electrical and computer engineering. Although it wasn’t my primary interest, I appreciated the professor’s engaging explanations and the real-world applications he highlighted. The second session of the day, with Professor Ramya Nair, was all about civil and environmental engineering. We discussed the environmental implications of it concrete production and learned how Cornell researchers are innovating sustainable practices for building materials. The best part was that we got to roll up our sleeves and make our own concrete picture holders. Once they were set, we decorated them and and got to keep them as souvenirs.
Research Session
After lunch at WSH Okenshields, we transitioned into the afternoon research session, led by Professor Sijin Li and Professor Abe Stroock. This session was an introduction to synthetic biology, focusing on how we can redesign organisms for useful purposes.
We started with plasmid design, learning how scientists program cells to produce specific proteins by manipulating DNA. Using Post-it notes, we designed our own plasmids, arranging components like promoters, terminators, and pigmentation genes. This exercise prepared us for the hands-on lab work that followed.
Next, we performed bacterial transformation experiments using E. coli. We introduced plasmid DNA into the bacteria and observed how they expressed colorful pigments, depending on the genetic instructions. It was fascinating to see biology and engineering converge to create vibrant, tangible results. We also explored the role of yeast in synthetic biology, streaking colorful yeast on plates to create pictures, blending science with creativity.
Evening Relaxation
The evening’s scheduled scavenger hunt was unfortunately canceled due to bad weather, so we stayed indoors and spent the time bonding as a group. We played games, shared stories, and laughed about the day’s highlights. While the change of plans was unanticipated, it turned into a relaxing and enjoyable evening.
Day 3:
Field Session
Our first session of the day was with Professor Mike Charles, who introduced us to the field of Biological and Environmental Engineering. We leaned about ways biology and engineering intersect to solve environmental challenges. The professor’s passion for the subject made the concepts approachable, and it was fascinating to see how engineers tackle pressing environmental issues. Next, we had the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering session with Professor Zhiting Tian. The hands-on demonstrations were engaging, and though the field was outside my primary interest, I appreciated the professor’s ability to make the content relatable and exciting.
Research Session: Exploring Phytomers and Rhizomicrobiomes
The afternoon brought us back to our research focus, led by Professor Sijin Li and Professor Abe Stroock. This session explored two fascinating topics: phytomers and the rhizosphere microbiome.
Phytomers and Plant Architecture: We learned that plants are composed of repeating units called phytomers, which consist of a leaf, an axillary bud, and a stem segment called the internode. By analyzing these patterns, scientists can engineer plants with optimized structures for agriculture. For the activity, we ventured outside to find plants with interesting patterns, then replicated their structures using paper cups and rubber bands. This hands-on exercise reinforced how small changes in plant architecture can have significant agricultural benefits.
The Rhizosphere Microbiome: We learned about the rhizosphere microbiome, a community of microorganisms living in close proximity to plant roots. These microbes play a crucial role in soil health and plant growth by exchanging signals and nutrients with plants. Using techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and gel electrophoresis, we visualized microbial DNA to identify genes associated with functions like ammonia oxidation and nitrate reduction. This activity demonstrated how genomics can show microbial communities and their interactions with plants.
Evening Relaxation
While some participants went rock climbing at Bartels Hall in the evening, I chose to stay back and relax. The downtime was a welcome break after the day’s intensive learning.
Day 4:
Field Session
The day began with a Materials Science and Engineering session led by Professor Karla Wagner. We explored how materials are engineered to meet specific needs. This session deepened my appreciation for the science behind the materials we encounter daily. Next, we transitioned to a session on Biomedical Engineering with Professor Nate Cira, where we examined the intersection of biology and engineering. I found this session particularly inspiring as it aligned closely with my aspirations in the future.
Research Session: Connecting the Internet of Living Things
The afternoon brought us back to the ongoing research theme with Professors Sijin Li and Abe Stroock. The session focused on applying the Internet of Things (IoT) to agriculture, turning it into the Internet of Living Things (IoLT). We explored how technologies like soil moisture sensors can help optimize water usage in farming, reducing waste and increasing crop yield.
During the session, we worked with Arduino kits to program sensors for detecting soil moisture levels. After calibrating the sensors using soil and water samples, we connected them to the Arduino and tested the results. It was fascinating to see how a simple device could provide actionable insights for sustainable farming. This hands-on activity demonstrated the power of integrating technology with the natural world.
Picnic at Treman State Park
The evening was a much-needed break from the intensity of the day. We headed to Treman State Park. Despite the serene setting, there were a lot of flies, which kept us on our toes as we tried to enjoy our picnic. The menu was simple but satisfying, and the group camaraderie made up for the minor inconveniences.
The highlight of the evening was a water balloon fight, which quickly turned into a laughter-filled frenzy. Even the staff joined in, and by the end, everyone was soaked and smiling. Staying at the park until 7:45 PM allowed us to unwind and strengthen the bonds we’d been building all week.
Day 5:
Field Session
We had a session on Cornell Undergraduate Admissions. A representative from the admissions office shared an insider’s perspective on the application process, focusing on what makes Cornell’s engineering programs unique. We learned about the importance of highlighting our passions and showcasing how our interests align with Cornell’s mission. They also provided tips on crafting strong essays and navigating the competitive admissions process. Hearing directly from someone in admissions demystified the process and gave me a clearer idea of what to focus on as I prepare for my college applications.
Research Session
After the field session, we boarded a bus to the Cornell Orchards, where we continued our research on the Internet of Living Things (IoLT). Led by Professors Sijin Li and Abe Stroock, the session emphasized the practical applications of IoLT in agriculture.
Our activity revolved around sensors and robotic tools that monitor plant health and optimize agricultural practices. Using Arduino-based soil moisture sensors, we collected data on the hydration levels of different plots. Additionally, we saw how soft robotic grippers can be used to harvest fruits, such as blueberries, demonstrating how gentle robotic mechanisms can improve efficiency in farming. This hands-on application of engineering principles was incredibly rewarding and gave us a deeper appreciation for how technology bridges biology and sustainability.
Blueberry Picking and Evening Reflection
After the research session, we stayed at the orchards to pick blueberries. The rows of bushes were bursting with ripe fruit, and the activity felt more like a fun reward than part of our academic schedule. We laughed, chatted, and tasted a few berries along the way, making it a relaxing and enjoyable way to end the day’s work.
Day 6:
Field Session
The morning started with a field session on Operations Research and Information Engineering, led by Professor Christina Yu. We explored how mathematical modeling and optimization are used to solve complex logistical problems. Professor Yu shared real-world examples that demonstrated how small efficiency improvements can make a big impact on industries. Next, we transitioned to a session on Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering with Professor Shuwen Yue. We learned how engineers design molecules and it was inspiring to see how chemical engineering drives innovation across multiple fields, and it tied well into our research on programmable plants and the Internet of Living Things (IoLT).
Research Session
After the field sessions, we regrouped for one final research session with Professors Sijin Li and Abe Stroock. The focus was on synthesizing everything we had learned throughout the week into a cohesive presentation. Our team worked on designing an IoLT system map, detailing how plant sensors could monitor water usage and nutrient levels to optimize agricultural practices and our project system. We also practiced articulating our findings in a way that was clear, engaging, and accessible—skills we’d honed during the Science Communication lesson earlier in the session.
The Banquet
The evening was dedicated to celebrating our week at CURIE Academy. We gathered for a banquet, where faculty, staff, and scholars reflected on the journey we’d shared. It was a time to recognize the hard work everyone had put into their projects, celebrate the friendships we’d formed, and look forward to the future. The atmosphere was a mix of pride and nostalgia as we realized our time at CURIE Academy was coming to an end.
Late-Night Collaboration
Back at the dorms, my group and I stayed up late, fine-tuning our presentation and practicing our delivery. It was a collaborative and supportive environment, with everyone contributing ideas and feedback. Beyond the academic focus, it was a moment of camaraderie that reminded me of how much we’d grown as a team throughout the week.
Day 7:
Presentations and Goodbyes
The final day of CURIE Academy was both exciting and bittersweet. After a week of hard work, collaboration, and learning, it was time to share our research with an audience that included our parents, faculty, staff, and professors.
Each group presented their findings, showcasing the innovative projects we had been working on throughout the week. It was inspiring to see how much everyone had grown, not only in knowledge but also in confidence and communication skills. Standing in front of such a supportive audience made all the effort worthwhile, and it was rewarding to hear feedback from professors and staff who had guided us along the way.
After the presentations, we exchanged hugs, contact information, and goodbyes. While it was kind of hard to leave, I knew the lessons I had learned and the connections I had made would continue to shape my journey in the field.
Conclusion
My week at CURIE Academy was nothing short of transformative. From the thrill of stepping onto Cornell’s campus for the first time to presenting our research on the final day, each moment was valuable. The program not only deepened my understanding of engineering but also showed me the power of collaboration, hands-on learning, and stepping out of my comfort zone.
Each day brought new challenges and experiences and along the way, I formed friendships with peers from all over the country, learned from inspiring professors, and gained a clearer vision of my future in STEM.
But the story doesn’t end here! In my next post, I’ll dive deeper into what CURIE Academy taught me, reflect on the program as a whole, and share the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. I’ll also include advice for future applicants and tips for making the most out of this incredible experience. Stay tuned—it’s a post you won’t want to miss!
About the Author:
I'm Jophy Lin, a high school junior and researcher. I blog about a variety of topics, such as STEM research, competitions, shows, and my experiences in the scientific community. If you’re interested in research tips, competition insights, drama reviews, personal reflections on STEM opportunities, and other related topics, subscribe to my newsletter to stay updated!
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