My name is Jamison Clark, and I’m a rising sophomore at the University of Michigan. I am a psychology major and gender and health minor. I’m passionate about social activism and philosophy, and I enjoy reading, playing guitar, working out, and thrifting. I have two older sisters, Riley and Mackenzie, who I really look up to, and an adorable dog named Cooper. I am a proud trans man, which is part of why I am so thrilled for my research project this summer. I am working at the forefront of trans research, specifically the effects of gender affirming testosterone treatment on fertility through a mouse model. This is my first experience doing research in a lab, so I want to gain as many skills in the lab as I can to prepare for similar, future research. Picking up as many techniques as I can learn and understanding the functions of a lab space are important goals for me this summer. I am nervous about how new everything is for me because it is a lot to take in so quickly. Specifically, learning how to handle the mice is going to be challenging simply due to my lack of any experience with animals in science. However, I am very motivated to learn, so I think I will be successful in my endeavors over the course of the fellowship. I also discussed continuing with research after the fellowship ends with Dr. Shikanov, the head of the lab, which would be incredible. My passion for and interest in this research will aid me because I know I will be hardworking and dedicated. I tend to be a quick learner, and once I complete all the training, I know I can be a good addition to the lab. I really look forward to and appreciate this experience and this opportunity.
A Letter to Your Future Self – Jamison Clark
