WOW! Being immersed in a cutting edge biotechnology community is mentally stimulating! I have spent time in the Quality Control (QC) Microbiology, Bioassay, Chemistry and Chemistry-Raw Materials labs, all while learning an entirely new language (QC, GMP, SOP, LSM, 2K, FVM, WIF, WPU, PW, TOC, USP, EU, LOTO, LAL, C of A, Q of A, Bioburden, Potable, and the list goes on!!!) I have toured all three manufacturing sites and have sampled water for testing, which included gowning up and entering a purified environment (wish I could provide a picture). It has been great taking on the role of student!
What I hope to accomplish through my fellowship:
1. Community resources. We live in an amazing location, full of resources. I want to find, and then use, the amazing resources that are at our “teacher fingertips” by living in the Triangle, in order to enhance student learning. For example, did you know Biogen Idec is starting up a community lab? You can bring your students to the lab for a scientific experience you cannot provide in your classroom. More information to come!
2. Sharing and Networking. I am looking forward to getting together as a Kenan Fellowship group and bouncing ideas off like minds. We are truly a force to be reckoned with! (Not to mention the wonderful group of people I have met at Biogen Idec who are full of great ideas!)
3. Fall in love with teaching, again. The day in and day out educational grind can take a toll on a teacher. I want to use my time as a fellow to refresh and renew. Already I am looking forward to jumping back into this classroom this fall and trying to incorporate the things I have/will learn.
I love your third hope…to fall in love with teaching again. I truly believe that all teachers need renewing and refreshing experiences in order to stay fresh and passionate about teaching. It is so easy to get bogged down in some of the less enjoyable parts of the job. Teachers must never stop learning and growing.