Whoosh! The iridescent flame ascended the sleeve of my navy Nautica sweater quickly, and I realized too late that I had brushed the hot Bunsen burner. The overworked chemistry teaching assistant, who had already grown tired of me after just one week of general chemistry lab, uttered a piercing profanity that echoed off the sterile lab’s tile walls. She then proceeded to push me forcefully into the newly renovated safety shower as she simultaneously pulled the white cord triggering a sudden downpour, eradicating the fire. Freezing, soaking wet, and smelling of burnt polyester and sadness, I seriously contemplated my major.
Dr. Sarah Smith made it through general chemistry lab and medical school. She enjoys writing in her spare time.