This past summer, Madeleine was one of the Youth Science Fellows at UCI Cancer Research Institute. Her favorite part of the experience was working with the Genomics Research and Technology Hub, where she learned how to purify and extract DNA from zebrafish samples using various lab techniques and machines. Over the course of this hands-on, six-week research program, she gained valuable skills, from pipetting to working with genome sequencers.

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Madeleine's advice to other students is not to be afraid to ask questions: "Do not be afraid of asking clarifying questions and doing your own external research on a lab's topic. Do not be afraid of asking questions because you are afraid of looking "incompetent". The researchers and mentors are working on complex projects, and this is your chance to learn more about their field. They understand that you are a high school student, so relax! Have fun and embrace the experience because it goes by quickly!"