Over the past three years, and again this summer, as Program Manager for the Summer Program in Neuroscience, Excellence, and Success (SPINES), I’ve had the joy of working alongside an incredible group of emerging neuroscientists and dedicated faculty from all across the continental U.S. and Puerto Rico. Each summer, I helped co-design the course, managed every logistical detail, and watched as the next generation of fellows and professionals discovered new passions, skills, and friendships.
My days were always dynamic; sometimes I was setting up cutting-edge two-photon imaging experiments or coordinating hands-on MATLAB training, while other times I handled the curveballs: missing equipment shipments, last-minute schedule changes, or even helping students navigate local housing and food options. Working closely with the Marine Biological Laboratory’s facilities team, our course directors, and the education office, I learned the art of keeping everything running so our faculty and fellows could focus on what mattered most: learning, teaching, and growing together.
One of my favorite parts of the summer was having the opportunity to share my own research through a dedicated lecture. Seeing students’ curiosity and ambition firsthand, I made it a point to provide resources for external funding opportunities, such as those available from the NIH, to help them take those next steps in their careers.
Perhaps most fulfilling of all was the chance to mentor fellows one-on-one during informal moments—whether over coffee breaks or evening walks. Being able to inspire, guide, and encourage these talented scientists as they navigated the challenges and opportunities of the program brought me tremendous satisfaction.
The annual SPINES Symposium was always a highlight. Organizing it and seeing the fellows present their research made every bit of planning worth it. These summers have been profoundly meaningful and have deepened my dedication to outreach and access in professional development programs. I look forward to seeing the impact our SPINES alumni will continue to make in neuroscience and beyond.
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