One student writes about COOP 670: “I think Dr. Kapp is by far the best part of COOP, second maybe to the free food. I appreciate how he made classes fun and interesting, his random analogies, and how he was always willing to help students learn or help with labs.”
The Summer 2024 course COOP 670, headed by Skyline College professor Nick Kapp, was a two-week paid biotechnology work experience program from June 12th to June 27th. Under Kapp, participating students followed industry-standard procedures to produce high-quality products for use in local high school science classes and several college biotechnology programs. Students worked to learn and improve various Biotech-related skills such as micro pipetting, aseptic technique, plasmid DNA purification, bacteria culture, DNA gel electrophoresis, solution/ media preparation, analysis of the results, documentation, and much more.
This experience incorporates the one-unit college course COOP 671, which is required to earn a Biotechnology Manufacturing Assistant Certificate.
…And it is also an overall good time for any student willing to explore the exciting world of Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing!
The strongest aspect of COOP 670, aside from high-level instruction and exciting hands-on application with real Biotech material, is the unique bond all the students share with Professor Kapp and each other. In the lunch period of each class, students embark on a short hiking trip around Building 12.
These activities help strengthen each student’s interest in Biotechnology and their ability to work together. Students come out of COOP 670 not only knowing more than ever before about constructing complex science products or the deft skill of wielding the necessary tools to do so but with the expert education given to them by Prof. Kapp.
A student wrote about the tool pictured above: “My favorite lab tool is a micropipette because it is a very hands-on piece of equipment and we use it very often! I also like it because it allows me to be precise in my measurements.”
Another student wrote about the device pictured above: “I like the heat plate because it has multiple functions—not only can it heat things up, but it can also spin and mix up substances.” Of course, COOP 670 always ensures students never forget about the basics.
A student writes: “My favorite lab tool is a marker because it allows me to keep track of the materials I am using and the products I am making. It is there with me throughout every step of the lab to ensure I don’t mix anything up.”
Nick Kapp’s COOP 670 isn’t just about Biotechnology. It’s a coming-together of like-minded students for the purposes of making things with their bare hands. Above all else, it’s a course on life, wisdom, and the education it takes to make it so. And Prof. Kapp is at the helm of it all.
Article by Elijah A. Colomer | Photos by Nick Kapp & Students
