Research Training Program

Smithsonian Institution
National Museum of Natural History

Letter of Gratitude
2004


6 August 2004

Lee Zelewicz
Lycoming College
Williamsport, Pennsylvania


Dear National Science Foundation,

Science is man's endeavor to understand the great natural world within which we exist. The universe holds many mysteries and science is the key to unraveling the puzzles at hand.

I would like to thank you for allowing me to take part in trying to solve my piece of the puzzle. The RTP program has supplied enormous opportunities for research and learning. From studying thin sections from Angkor Wat, to exploring the collections of the Smithsonian, to getting to know the scientists that I have grown to love, the program has been an invaluable experience. Your funding has given the key to science to me, and many other participants. It has allowed me to unlock the doors of the Smithsonian. Your sponsorship of the RTP program kindles the flame of science because it allows a new generation of scientist to ignite their careers, and like a wildfire we shall burn a path to the future.

The research has been great, but I cannot ignore the friendships that I have formed at the Smithsonian. These friendships with my fellow interns and researchers have made the experience. Whether I was working in the lab with Sorena Sorensen or watching a movie on the mall at one of the infamous "Screen on the Green" presentations with my fellow interns, I was experiencing the bond of friendship.

The program gave me limitless possibilities as I strolled the halls of the Smithsonian and the streets of DC. Touring the Anthropology department at MSC was a grand expedition and could only be complimented by exploring the shops found at Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan. The city is monumental and so are the many memories and friendships that I have formed here at the Smithsonian.

The RTP program has taken me another step closer to my goals to pursue science as a profession.
Science is without the limits of time because it is infinite. The world that surrounds and supports us will never yield all her secrets and as time moves forward we will struggle with new exciting puzzles.

Sincerely,


Lee Zelewicz
Research Training Program
Class of '04