Number the Stars

Counting bacteria cells feels a lot like trying to count the stars. It is seemingly impossible. I suppose that's why microbiologists came up with some mathematical equations they can use to count pieces of a slide and then use that to estimate the cell population of the slide. I spent quite awhile working with the epifluorescence scope today learning how to make slides and then using them to take cell counts. My slides came out really well for my first time, and now I get a slide box to keep all my slides in...I feel like a professional!