Students gain an appreciation for neuroscience at Brain Bee

It was a brain stimulating experience for Memorial students Oscar Gao and Matthew Garza when they attended the annual Brain Bee event at USC’s Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute (ZNI)
on February 1.

Oscar and Matthew learned about the brain and its vital function in our lives. They gained an appreciation for neuroscience that might one day lead them to become neurologists or neuroscientists who treat and conquer diseases related to the brain. 

Like a Spelling Bee, the Brain Bee allowed students to compete with each other in their knowledge of neuroscience. The competition involved a written exam which included a practical component about neuroanatomy; and those students who advanced competed in a Jeopardy style Q and A. The winner of the Local Brain Bee then moved on to participate in the National Brain Bee. 

Participants also enjoyed interesting demonstrations, including brain dissections, and listened to lectures from prestigious neuroscientists. All attendees received a certificate for their efforts.

“I had a great time, and I learned a lot about the human brain such as disorders that stem from genetic mutations and current research on things like Alzheimer's disease,” said Matthew.  “This experience really opened my eyes to all of the possibilities and paths I can take in the future in regard to a career in the neuroscience field. My favorite part was hearing the live presentations by the researchers studying human organoids.”

Oscar also thought attending the Brain Bee was a great experience. “The best part was meeting and hearing from undergraduate and graduate students and professors. They introduced us to the most advanced research and technology used in the field of neuroscience and broadened my knowledge base.”