SSU’s Hua hosts interns in new partnership with Healdsburg High
In a significant step toward fostering local talent and bridging the gap between high school education and scientific research, Dr. Lisa Hua's lab, part of the Biology Department at Sonoma State University, recently hosted two rising juniors from Healdsburg High School for a spring internship program.
The program, coordinated by David Hubbell, Healdsburg High’s Work-Based Learning Coordinator, marked the inaugural partnership between Healdsburg High School and Sonoma State University’s Hua Lab.
The interns, Meher Dhiman and Amelia Wickersham, were mentored by Hua lab undergraduates Kieran Chiddix and Sarah Sanchez. SRJC faculty recommended Meher to Hua directly. Both students were given the opportunity to engage in hands-on scientific research, acquiring high-resolution images of human cells using a brightfield microscope in the lab. Their projects, which centered on understanding the organization of chromosomes in normal human cells and how disorganization can lead to diseases like cancer, are part of ongoing research studies under an NIH grant to the Hua Lab.
Dhiman was referred to the program by faculty at Santa Rosa Junior College. Her dedication and initiative in seeking out an internship led to an instant connection with Hua and Hubbell, and set the stage for future collaborations between Healdsburg high school students and SSU's research groups.
Meher and Amelia, who were initially drawn to the program out of curiosity and passion for STEM, will present their research projects at the Healdsburg High School Internship Fair on March 5. The event will showcase the skills they’ve acquired, and the students will be able to share their work with faculty, supervisors, parents, and peers.
“I learned so much about what it’s like in a college lab and the experience was very memorable,” Wickersham said. “I loved using the microscopes to take pictures and being a part of the lab meetings. I am very grateful for what [Hua] and our mentors did to make this experience what it was. I know I definitely want to pursue a career in STEM.”
The Healdsburg High School internship program allows students to explore a wide range of industries. From law to engineering and marine science to biology, students gain practical experience across sectors while developing essential career skills. The program, which involves over 80 local businesses and institutions including Sonoma State University, provides students with a competitive edge in their future careers.
This spring’s collaboration between SSU and Healdsburg High School is an example of the university’s commitment to preparing students for future success. Kieran Chiddix and Sarah Sanchez, undergraduate mentors in the Hua lab, emphasized the importance of giving future STEM students hands-on experiences, which not only enriches their academic growth but also inspires them to pursue higher education and careers in science.
“The impact of this internship program is truly invaluable,” Hua said. “It provides high school students with a direct glimpse into the world of scientific research while reinforcing their aspirations for STEM careers. We are excited to continue these partnerships, and my students and I aim to inspire the next generation of scientists.”
The Hua lab is open to hosting local high school students for future summer internships. Students interested in similar opportunities are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Hua directly at hual@sonoma.edu.
About Healdsburg High School Internship Program
Healdsburg High School’s internship program is Sonoma County's only work-based learning initiative offering high school juniors real-world experience across diverse industries. Students gain career readiness skills, complete projects, and work alongside mentors in fields like law, engineering, biology, veterinary science, and more. The program is an invaluable resource that sets Healdsburg High School students apart in the competitive job market.