Name: Kyla Truong
Class Year: 2026
Major: Neuroscience

Internship Organization: Marsh Laboratory at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute
Internship Title:  Research Intern
Location: Philadelphia, PA

What’s happening at your internship? We would love to hear what kind of work you are doing!  

My internship is at the Marsh Laboratory, a research laboratory affiliated with the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, which specializes in the study of epilepsy. Namely, I am part of two research projects that explore how neurons change shape during learning and memory formation and how these processes are affected by epileptic disorders. Some of my responsibilities include staining for and examining neurons in mouse brains as well as quantitative assessment of changes in cell morphology! 

Why did you apply for this internship?  

As a neuroscience major, I was drawn to the Marsh Laboratory for its focus on studying the genetic and molecular mechanisms behind neurological disorders. In particular, the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in immunohistochemistry techniques, electrophysiology, and other classic neurobiological research techniques fascinated me.  

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced at your internship? 

I’ve quickly learned that having patience is the most important skill – and most challenging skill – to have in a research setting. Experiments can take longer than you expect, and it can take weeks to master skills or see any meaningful results. Progress isn’t linear, and success rarely comes immediately. But instead of focusing on the destination, I’ve come to appreciate the journey. This comes in the form of finding joy in understanding the science behind tasks I would normally find tedious, such as creating solutions or preparing slices. This also includes discussing my work with my team and receiving support. Moreover, I learned to be kind to myself when things don’t go as planned and to view past mistakes as learning opportunities. 

What is most rewarding about your internship? 

The connections I’ve made and the skills I have learned are the most rewarding aspects of my internship. I am deeply grateful for my fellow undergraduate interns, who have given me the support and kindness that immediately brighten the work atmosphere. I am also incredibly grateful for my Principal Investigators (PIs) and my postdoctoral technician supervisors. They have been exceptional guides, their patience and gentle instruction motivating me to continue my work even on days when success feels out of reach.  

My internship has shown me just how little I truly know about the brain. But during my time at the Marsh Lab, I have been exposed to several types of neurons and have gathered invaluable knowledge about synaptic connections, learning, memory, and manifestations of neurological disorders. For example, one of my favorite work responsibilities is examining neurons under the microscope. Depending on the area and orientation, neurons can look remarkably different from classic textbook depictions. Synaptic connections are also fascinating to look at, and I am always in awe whenever I observe the neurons because they resemble stars or fireworks. Hence the name of my blog post, “Sparks Fly!” Above all, this internship has enhanced my passion for studying neuroscience and has given me a strong support group from which I can lean on as I continue my endeavors.