An inside look into what it’s like being in one of CSULB’s research programs
One of the main reasons I applied to CSULB as a senior in high school was that they offered what seemed like an endless amount of programs and extracurriculars. Four years later, it is no surprise that I am still finding new programs that operate to enrich students’ time here at Long Beach. Recently, I was introduced to the CSULB BUILD program, which stands for Building Infrastructure Leading to Diversity. BUILD is just one of the ten programs funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) BUILD Initiative. This is a health-related research-based program offered for undergraduate students from the Colleges of Engineering, Health and Human Services, Liberal Arts, Natural Sciences, and Mathematics that provides hands-on training from specialized faculty mentors. BUILD prides itself on providing professional development skills and a supportive community that helps students succeed in applying for graduate school. To learn more about this program, I interviewed Marc Barcelos, a student involved in both the University Honors Program and BUILD, on his experience thus far.
Below is my interview:
ME: Tell me a bit about yourself? Your year, major, and role in the BUILD program?
MB: “I am a junior that is currently majoring in psychology with a minor in biology. I am a BUILD scholar, meaning that I am a part of BUILD's two-year program designed to support students from diverse backgrounds to get research experience and prepare to apply for graduate programs.”
ME: How did you hear about BUILD, and why did you decide to join? Can you briefly explain the process?
MB: “I heard about BUILD via word of mouth and decided to attend an information meeting. Once I heard about what it was, I thought it was an amazing opportunity to do what I really wanted to do (complete research) and even make money in the process. After that point, I identified a professor that I wanted to be my BUILD mentor, and she helped me as I collected all the different application resources I needed to apply.”
ME: What is your favorite part about being in the BUILD program?
MB: “I love being in the lab so much and exploring research questions. Every day I look forward to working in person with my colleagues, designing experiments, analyzing data, and most importantly, being curious. For a long time, it has been my dream to complete research in a lab, and I finally feel like I am doing it.”
ME: Do you think BUILD has set you up for success after undergrad? How so?
MB: “BUILD has definitely set me up for success because not only has it provided me with lots of experiences I can use to boost my resume, but more importantly, it has taught me how to be independent and self-sufficient in my work. Whether it is working in the lab or applying to graduate school, I feel like I am capable and excited to meet challenges with all of these new tools at my disposal.”
ME: What advice do you have for those looking to apply to the BUILD program?
MB: “If you are on the fence about it, just do it. It is an amazing experience that has changed the course of my undergraduate experience for the better. The worst that can happen is that you don't get in, so there is really nothing to lose. It's always better to say "I tried" rather than "What if?" ”
ME: Is there anything else you want to add about the BUILD program and your experience?
MB: “I encourage anyone who is curious to apply. It’s a great holistic experience that makes you not only a better researcher but a more well-rounded individual.”
So there you have it! BUILD is an amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen your academic career and create lasting connections and mentorships. As BUILD is science-related, if it is not something you find yourself participating in, I hope this inspires you to look more into what programs CSULB has to offer for your interests and major.
All photos are from the BUILD website:
“SURGE students showing off their BUILD Spirit
L to R: Tracy Nguyen, Christine Tang, Jeffrey Nguyen, Maya Martinez, and Don Napasindayao”
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