When I was selected to be part of the 2001 Minority Undergraduate Program, I had no idea the impression it would make on my life. At the time, I was not aware of toxicology as a research field or of the many opportunities that abound for careers in toxicology. The program introduced me to the broad field of toxicology, the different types of research occurring, various career fields, and a wonderful group of people.
I was so enthralled with the program that I made it a mission to become and stay involved with it so I could help undergraduate students discover toxicology and a love for scientific research. I volunteered with the program as a peer mentor throughout graduate school and as a host mentor after beginning my career in toxicology, with the goal of aiding the program in impacting the lives of other undergraduate and graduate students as it impacted my life and career decisions.
I remember one particular year in which I was a host mentor. There were a couple of undergraduate students in my group who were there because their advisors made them apply for the program, but they didn’t comprehend why their advisors wanted them to participate. After talking with them a bit, I asked about their science interests and what research they were interested in. When I described their interests and research to them in a way that highlighted toxicology, their eyes lit up and their minds opened. Afterwards their interest in being there increased, as did their participation. That is what it is all about: turning the light bulb on about what is available and open to them as toxicologists.
As this year marks the 25th anniversary celebration of the Minority Undergraduate Program, it is motivating to look back over the history of the program and see how we have made a difference in the lives of so many who would have never had the opportunity to learn about and join the field of toxicology. It is also exciting to plan for the many more who will be a part of the program in future years.
As an added bonus, being a part of the program introduced me to friendships that have lasted over the many years. While we may not see each other during the year due to busy and varied schedules, we know that we will be together at the SOT CDI Reunion each year that the Annual Meeting. Tonight, I am looking forward to interacting with this year’s group of students and mentors, as well as catching up with friends to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Minority Undergraduate Education Program.
Jennifer L. Rayner is a 2001 alumna of Minority Undergraduate Education Program and was the 2011-2012 Chair of the SOT Committee on Diversity Initiatives.