Marquette Teen Tweaks Power Drink for Easier Swallow in Summer Research

Anna Ji is a star. 

The Marquette High School senior participated in the STARS program, a six-week internship for high school students interested in science.

Students and Teachers as Research Scientists (STARS) was held in June at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Research opportunities were available at University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL), Washington University, Saint Louis University and local corporations.

"Students were placed in research labs in the area and mentored by scientists," Ji said. 

"I worked at Solae Company. My project was to tweak a basic nutritional supplement drink so it would meet the needs of people with swallowing difficulty." 

Ji's project, Development of a Soy Protein-blend Nutritional Beverage for Elderly People with Dysphagia, was mentored by Drs. Elaine Krul, Robin Connelly and Barry Tulk of the Solae Company.

Ji said the STARS experience was valuable.

"I learned how scientists work in reality and the differences of working in a business setting versus research at a university," Ji said.

While science is one of Ji's strengths, she is involved in a variety of activities. 

Ji studied violin since age four years and plays in the school orchestra.

She serves as student council secretary, is a member of the National Honor Society and the Key Club—a community service group. 

"I like to hang out with my friends and I work with my church youth group. Ji also volunteers with the county library's summer reading program. 

Heading into her senior year in high school, Ji is not quite sure of her career direction. 

"I was leaning toward biology but I'm not certain," she said. She wants to attend college in the Midwest. Washington University is high on her list of choices.