tant tomato strains, and also look for differences in certain hot spots on the tomato genome where resistant genes tend to appear,” he explains.

Martin found a significant difference on one chromosome, which he will present at the symposium. The next step, he says, is look at as many lines as possible to determine if the difference can be used as a molecular marker for breeders.

“This has helped me learn what research is actually like,” says Martin, who wants to go on to medical school after he graduates. “I’ve learned a lot about genetics technology, and I also learned how to collaborate on research, and how to present my findings.”

Another second-year student, Jenna Klink, says that she also values her research experience. Klink, a biology and women’s studies major from Slinger, Wis., will present the results of a survey project that examines how family support affects pre-med students’ confidence in their abilities to overcome barriers and problems.

“As a pre-med student myself, I’ve met people in my classes who I feel would make good doctors but who are turning away because of worries over grades, research, volunteering, and test scores,” Klink says.

Klink adds that one goal of her project is to determine whether more resources may be needed on campus to help all struggling students, including those who want to go on to medical school.