Dare to Succeed: Advice for Our Spartans

My story is directed to the younger classes as they start to pave their way through challenging classes and extracurricular activities.   In the effort to build your resume and distinguish your unique talents, I encourage each of you to take chances.  The old adage, “you never know unless you try,” is one I hope you all take to heart.

Two years ago, the summer after my sophomore year, I was staring at my computer screen wondering if I should push the “send” button.  I had just written an email to a renowned international researcher requesting a visit to his biochemistry research lab at UCLA. I did not know anyone at this facility nor did I have any connections, but I was very interested in what they were studying. Every possible doubt filled my head. “Are you seriously going to send this Vahe?” I was thinking to myself.  “You are just a student. They probably ignore emails like this every day.  Don’t waste your time.”  

This is why I am writing this article for the blog. Because, I did push the “send” button.  I also pushed all the negative thoughts out of mind. I believed in myself.  I sent the email at 8:30 am.  At 12:30pm, I had received a response from Dr. Martin Hewison, a renowned British researcher who was heading the Hewison Research Lab at UCLA. He invited me to stop by, visit him, and meet the team.  The rest is history.

By the time the next summer rolled around, I was suited up in a UCLA research lab coat and was splicing RNA, and conducting gel electrophoresis. This incredible opportunity would never have happened if I hadn’t taken a chance. I hope this story illustrates how doors can open if you are willing to take risks.  Believe in yourself.  And never be afraid to press “send.”

Vahe Yacoubian

Class of 2016