On Tuesday, May 6, 2003, I, along with 15 other students and 4 adults (three parents and our FA teacher, Candice Childs) from Family Academy®/South Seattle , went to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Downtown Seattle, where we spent about 6 hours of our day. We were participating in "HutchLab," a biomedical research program for students and teachers which emphasizes genetics, molecular biology and biotechnology. We spent a majority of the day in our gloves, lab coats and goggles, listening, watching and conducting several experiments. In conducting the experiments we had access to extremely accurate micropipettes and other very costly scientific equipment. The scientists talked about and explored GMOs (genetically modified organisms) with us and their current and potential use. We also considered the advantages and disadvantages of this technology.

Our task for the day was to complete the "New Employee Training and Certification" for "Optibiogen, Inc." (a fictional company). This company's purpose was to test plants, seeds, and food products for GMOs. Though the company was fictional, the testing is real since Europe does not accept GMO products at this point.

Each pair of students learned how to extract DNA from wheat germ. We began by first reviewing the structures and functions of DNA and RNA. (Before coming to the lab, our Family Academy® teacher prepared us with instruction and readings about DNA and RNA structures and replication, and protein synthesis). The extraction process required us to use three sizes of micropipettes, each worth over $250, so we learned how to carefully use and read these micropipettes. Knowing which one to use when was critical to accurate measuring.

We then amplified the DNA by creating a "Polymerize Chain Reaction." We took swabs of the string-like gooey DNA substance and placed them in small vials. (We were able to take home some of the product we had extracted). The process made the extracted DNA "unzipped" and extended the DNA sequence.

Each team had to determine if their wheat germ sample had been genetically modified or not. Once the DNA was extracted, it was compared against the non-modified wheat germ (negative control) and a modified wheat germ (positive control) and water (neutral) through a process called electrophoresis where the DNA separates out into distinct bands to create its unique DNA ladder. If our sample had been a GMO, then the "transgene" would appear in its DNA ladder. Half of the teams had a GMO and the other half didn't. We even were able to photograph the DNA ladder of the results of our experiment to compare our results against each other more easily.

At lunch, groups of four (2 pairs of students) from our lab tables had lunch with resident scientists. They told us about their work and we were able to ask them any questions that came to our minds. At my table, we mostly talked about colleges and our plans for the future.

That day was special to my classmates and me because it afforded us a look into the world of science. We heard and observed the different ways scientists are trying to advance the technology of science and ecology. The experience also opened up my eyes to a world that needs and wants people with a passion to further advance knowledge and find cures and solutions to some of the problems we face every day.