Houston Students Help World of Medical Research Through St. Jude

As part of a summer immersion opportunity with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and local higher education institutions, Ashton Carter, Jenny Zeng, Yifei Ren, and Mario Carmona spent their summer working alongside research faculty. Rather than simply learning about science from a textbook, the students stepped directly into the laboratory and became part of the research process.

Throughout the program, the students gained hands-on experience conducting experiments and working with researchers as they explored questions that could ultimately contribute to new discoveries for patients. They learned how to structure a laboratory, develop and test experiments, analyze results, and approach scientific problems with the patience, persistence, and curiosity that research demands.

On July 25, faculty members from Houston visited the students at Rhodes College, where they presented their research findings. Their posters showcased not only what they had learned, but also the hours of dedication and hard work they invested throughout the summer.

Mr. John Kennon, one of the outstanding Chemistry teachers at Houston High School, attended the culminating showcase at Rhodes College and had the opportunity to see the students’ research firsthand. Impressed by the depth and quality of their work, he praised all four students, saying, “Wow, they've done some amazing, cutting-edge academic research.”

For the students, the experience went far beyond observing professional researchers. They were actively involved in laboratory work and experiments, gaining firsthand insight into how scientific research takes shape and how discoveries can eventually make a difference in patients’ lives.

For Yifei Ren, the program provided a meaningful opportunity to connect what she had learned in the classroom with real-world health challenges. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “It was an incredible experience to learn from mentors about real world health issues, especially in cancer research and disease prevention.”

For Ashton, Jenny, Yifei, and Mario, the summer was more than a research program. It was an opportunity to step into the world of scientific discovery, work alongside experienced researchers, collaborate with peers from across the community, and experience firsthand how curiosity can become meaningful research.

A particularly memorable moment came when the CEO of St. Jude spoke to the students about the hospital’s mission and the importance of their work. Yifei recalled a message from his speech that especially stayed with her: “St. Jude’s mission was to leave no child behind.” Reflecting on the students’ role in that mission, she added, “We had the opportunity to take part in that fight against cancer.”

Their accomplishments are a powerful reminder of what can happen when students are given the opportunity to explore, experiment, and ask questions that matter.

Congratulations to Ashton Carter, Jenny Zeng, Yifei Ren, and Mario Carmona on an extraordinary summer of STEM research, discovery, and learning!