One of the greatest aspects of genetics is that it relates to every single person. To spread genetic literacy at Umass Amherst, I would organize a ‘DNA Day’. My goal would be to teach students some fundamental basics of genetics which they could relate to personally in order to optimize their interest. 3D models of the double helix and chromosomes would be made for students to physically hold and visualize from all aspects. I would also explain modern day uses of genetics such as DNA sequencing to demonstrate how these revolutionary tests have allowed scientists to provide evidence for ancient evolutionary relationships to mammals today. I would envision to organize more than one ‘DNA Day’ at Umass over time with a different topic each time so that students can choose to attend a variety of events that interest them. Other topics that I think would interest students and most importantly catch their attention for are gene editing, cancer genetics, and evolutionary genetics.
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