WEEK 1: 6/17/12 - 6/24/12

• So far, my experience at YSP has been interesting in many ways. Seeing that I have never been away from my family for 6 weeks, the responsibility and independence given to us is something entirely new to me. After navigating through the gigantic FSU campus and attending different classes, I believe, by the end of the program, I will be well-prepared for the college lifestyle next year. I think our schedules are perfectly tailored so that we get the most out of this summer, without it being too overwhelming. Amidst the rigorous schedule in the morning and afternoon, there is conveniently plenty of time to unwind. 
• First off (on M/W/F), I have enjoyed learning the material in each class greatly because it is much different from the lessons taught at my high school. Computer Science is a class I've always wanted to enroll in and after the first week of class, my interest in the subject has grown even more; it is a course I most definitely will continue to pursue as I enter my senior year. Although at times challenging, the Differential Equations math class has already improved and developed my analytical skills. Further, I am extremely looking forward to the hands-on experimentation offered in Biochemistry class. Lastly (on T/TH), the individual research project allows us to apply textbook concepts into practical application — in my case, my professor has introduced my partner and I to understanding the basic mechanisms underlying cancer through DNA damage. In summary, I am confident YSP will provide us with not only a great summer but also a good taste of what to expect in our future careers in the math and sciences.