This week at the PAST Foundation I really had the opportunity to showcase what I’ve learned the past 2 years as a research intern.  We had 2 new interns (1 temporary) working with us this week.  So, we spent a lot of time showing them the ropes and how to do different tasks.  I didn’t realize just how much of the things that were one difficulty became second nature.  For example, administering surveys feels as simple as riding a bike, though there was once a time when I had to learn how.  So, that was really cool to see.  Also, we were working on some data analysis for an offsite program that traveled to Virginia a few weeks ago.  We walked the newbies through the process of how we organize the data and then divvy the tasks between all of us.  I typically take on the quantitative side of analyzing the data, so I had one of the new interns sit beside me while I showed her my process.  This was a bit difficult because it showcased how . . .sporadic my method can be at times! But that goes to show that what works for one may not work for others.  

On top of teaching the new people what to do, we also crafted a sort of manual where we documented our processes for everything we do as research interns.  This was a bit hard to do because explaining on paper is way different than verbally.  This is still a work in progress and I currently have no clue how to explain how I crunch the numbers.  I’m sure I will figure it out within the next few weeks.  

Lastly, we had more analysis to do! As we know, the midway point of the summer programs at PAST was just last week.  So, I have been working on analyzing the survey responses up to this point.  My goal for the upcoming week is to finish up my analysis and create a report to send out to all of the instructors, support staff, and other employees of PAST to help improve the program experience for the students! This is always a bit tedious but especially so now that I have over 100 responses to sift through.  I’ve got my method, so I get there! But, so far, things are looking positive!

I can’t believe we are nearly halfway through July! Where is time flying???? I love working at past and I can’t wait to see the fruits of my labor. 

See you next week!

Danyelle Bumpus