Biochemistry Student Arianna Pulik is interning in the lab of Dr. Paul Shapiro at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. She is working on determining the structure activity relationship of a protein kinase ERK2 in cells and how it can be manipulated to inhibit inflammation and cell proliferation in cases of melanoma. She does a lot of reading, which surprised her, but she is learning how much planning goes into research. She is also enjoying learning new skills and knowledge, and is appreciative of the collaborative atmosphere. She is truly excited by her work, and hopes this experience helps her to become a competitive medical school applicant.