A Furman Summer to Remember: Adventures, Research, and Fun in the Sun

Hey there, fellow adventurers! Buckle up your seatbelt as I take you on a ride through my unforgettable summer of 2023.  I promise you won’t want to miss this story!  

Fun in the Sun!

My summer kicked off with a bang – a trip to Panama City Beach, Florida, with RUF (Reformed University Fellowship). Oh boy, did we have a blast! Think sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the best company you can imagine – my best pals. We were a dynamic on a mission to squeeze every drop of joy out of the season. Flip-flops, sunscreen, beach volleyball, and the widest smiles you’ve ever seen. It was an absolute paradise! We practically lived on the beach and soaked in every second of that ocean breeze. And of course, we’ve got the pictures to prove it. You’ll see us grinning ear to ear, splashing in the waves, and just living our best lives

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 Time to Get Serious.  

But wait, there’s more! When I got back, it was time to swap the beach gear for a lab coat. Picture this: me in the lab, surrounded by all kinds of high-tech machines – a $500000 confocal microscope, a $120000 microplate reader machine, among several other machines – working side by side with my research professor, Dr. Dubash. It was like the Joseph from the Bible dreaming of amazing things, except that mine was actually a reality. I dove into the 10-week summer project focused on battling cardiac fibrosis. It might sound intense, but let me tell you, it was hands down the best time of my life. I had the independence to explore and discover, all with the guidance of my research professor, Dr. Adi Dubash. Together, we made groundbreaking progress that got us all pumped up. And guess what? Having already had a hands-on practice research presentation to the student body here at Furman, I also got the chance to present our findings to some learned professionals in the research world at INBRE (Idea Network for Biomedical Research Excellence), and I will, again at the ASCB (American Society of Cell Biologists) in December, and at Furman Engaged next Spring. Talk about a confidence booster!  

“Kobby, was that all you did?”

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Did you do anything besides lab work?” Absolutely! When I wasn’t tinkering with test tubes and microscopes, or leaving the lab lab at 7pm, I was hitting the gym. Yup, gotta keep that summer body in check, right? Working out was my escape, my way of recharging for the next research session. There’s something about a good workout that leaves you feeling like you’re on top of the world. I also decided to explore the downtown of Greenville City. While leisurely strolling along the streets, I soaked up the local culture and natural beauty. It was all about living in the moment, making memories, and appreciating everything I had.  

But that’s not all! I also spent some quality time with friends, as summers surely are the best time to develop a “more-than-acquaintance” relationship with people without having to worry about homework or meetings. 

But here’s the bummer – the summer flew by like a shooting star. One minute, I’m at the beach with my pals, and the next, I’m draped in a lab coat, busily trying to prove theories and hypotheses. Time sure does fly when you’re having the time of your life! This summer was all about balancing fun in the sun with serious scientific pursuits. And you know what? It was a wild ride that left me hungry for more. So, here’s to summers that fly by and memories that last a lifetime!