The Thunder Bolt

Concordia continues to invest in providing state-of-the-art facilities for our students. One area where we’ve made such investments is in our science lab equipment.

Some of the new equipment includes micropipettes for extracting very small samples of liquid; electrophoresis apparatuses, which separate and analyze DNA, and an autoclave, which sterilizes lab materials. This type of equipment gives students hands-on experience which will benefit them as they transition to university-level science classes. 

“We brought in PCR kits and electrophoresis machines, like the PV92 kit, used for DNA sequencing or genetic testing. People associate PCR with COVID. PCR is actually a tool, and we are using it for good. You can use it for other sorts of genetic testing, for something more positive,” High School science teacher Mr. Barrientes described.

“Our pipettes are brand new, very useful, and important for the labs we are doing. They are precision instruments, and I think for our kids, the most important aspect of using these micropipettes is that it sets them apart immediately from other students.

“If you walk into a university lab and you have this skill set, you will be given opportunities that other people wouldn’t have. A Principal Investigator or Lab Manager interviewing prospective interns or work-study students will want to know if you have any lab training,” Mr. Barrientes added.

Students shared how this equipment has helped them learn in the labs.

“Having been in several science classes at Concordia, this year has been by far the most interesting due to the hands-on aspects of the labs. Although the learning curve can be challenging, I learn a lot from doing it. We are now working on gel electrophoresis, a process we use to look at DNA. I’m curious to see the results when we finish because I’ve never done it before,” said Erin (G12).
 

"Using the new science equipment in our lab has enhanced my overall experience with science! It’s exciting to have access to professional-grade equipment that allows us more precise and accurate measurements. I'm using this equipment in both my AP Chemistry class and my Independent Science Research class," said Na Hyeon (G12).

"I am grateful to have new lab equipment this year! Having new lab equipment not only allows us to experiment with a variety of things, but it also broadens our perspective on science and the world. It inspires us to dream big," said Clara (G12).

“Equipment such as light spectrophotometers and microscopes has allowed me to gain hands-on experience. It supplements my learning because reading about experiments in the textbook can be challenging to visualize,” said Kota (G12).

The new equipment is part of Concordia’s commitment to putting students first.

“We continue to reinvest not only in our school community here but also in the larger Hanoi community. We always put students at the center of decision-making for the school. So when we think about how we're going to spend resources and what we need to advance the school, we consider what's going to be best for students,” said Dr. Doug Grove, Head of School.

Learn more about Concordia’s High School Program.