University of Missouri-Kansas City, Social Work
1. How long have you been at your institution?
1 year
2. Who is your favorite STEM character in a book, movie or TV show?
Temperance "Bones" Brennan
3. What inspired you to get involved in S-STEM work?
Beyond my passion to advocate for students, I empathize with some of the difficulties in transferring to a new university. At the beginning of my graduate program, I felt lost and was not bonded to the school or the program that I chose. I want to help the researchers at S-STEM examine factors that are contributing difficulties with the transfer process from a micro, mezzo, and macro perspective.
4. What skills or knowledge are you learning throughout the program that you find most useful in your career?
In my field, we are often in multidisciplinary teams, and this program gives me unique experience in working with professionals outside of my sector. This position also comes with learning opportunities to master skills such as grant writing and conducting qualitative research. These experiences will be invaluable in my future work.
5. What advice would you give to students who transfer from 2YC to 4YC?
My advice would be to make a conscious effort to build your social support and network. At times, we can lose sight of how valuable these resources can be to our endurance in completing a degree in STEM.
6. Is your involvement in S-STEM work worthwhile to your graduate school journey? If so, please elaborate.
In my social work program, we focus our studies on a generalist approach to Social Work. While I have been given experience with qualitative research and writing proposals, the work I will be doing with S-STEM will allow me greater depth and breadth of knowledge.
7. What skill do you think is most valuable for students considering a STEM career?
While many may believe that resilience is more of a character quality than a skill, resilience allows students to withstand the ups and downs that come with a career in STEM. This skill allows them to push through stress and possible failures. Resilience is especially vital in the research field, as this field often requires years of trial and error.
8. Tell us about the most rewarding experience that you have had during your STEM career.
While my career may not follow the typical path of a person in STEM, I value the impact that I made in graduate school when working as a Registered Behavioral Technician. Following the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and the guidance of my BCBA, I saw that applying the science of the field made an impact on the quality of life on my clients.