Cell biology can be a difficult topic for students to fully engage with. Its microscopic nature makes it difficult to fully visualize, and students sometimes struggle to see how it's relevant to their lives. We can enhance students' connection to learning by providing hands-on, visual experiences with direct applications to the world around them. These kinds of enrichment and extension activities also promote their overall interest in the sciences and STEM careers. Unfortunately, some of the most engaging and memorable activities are some of the most expensive, and our limited school budget does not often provide for activities outside of what's considered absolutely essential. This is especially true for students may not have been encouraged to enroll in AP or Dual Credit courses. By contributing funds to this initiative, you will provide general biology students with the opportunity to dissect a preserved organism under the guidance of a medical resident from OHSU. Students will learn how cell biology applies to research and medicine and may very well develop a newfound interest in the sciences moving forward. When you donate, you will receive updates from me about the outcome of the project as well as students' overall impressions and responses to this hands-on activity. It's important to me that you see the impact you have made on these very deserving students!

In terms of the project's connection to cell biology, each organ consists of different specialized cell types. We will apply what we've learned about cell structure, function, and differentiation to the different organs we dissect. For example, the brain contains specialized neurons which differ from the cardiac cells of the heart. The project will also help students visualize how cells are organized into tissues which are further organized into organs and organ systems. Perhaps more importantly, I want to provide students with an opportunity to connect what they are learning in biology with careers in research and medicine.