Chris Varney, a collaborative PI for PROSPECT at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln.
How long have you been at your institution?
1 month
Who is your favorite STEM character in a book, movie or TV show?
Abby Scuito from NCIS
What inspired you to get involved in S-STEM work?
I’ve worked with many successful students who started in a 2YC over the course of my career. I was often struck by the issues that students coming from community colleges face, often lacking information about financial aid, careers, and things they can do to setup success in their major.
What skills or knowledge are you learning throughout the program that you find most useful in your career?
The networking opportunities and experience working in a large collaboration will be incredibly beneficial to my development.
What advice would you give to students who transfer from 2YC to 4YC?
Make sure your coursework will satisfy the prerequisite requirements to start upper division courses in your chosen major after you transfer. I’ve seen many students transfer to a 4YC and have to change majors or attend part-time because they haven’t met the requirements for the courses they need to take for their major.
Is your involvement in S-STEM work worthwhile to your graduate school/professional journey? If so, please elaborate.
Of course! I am passionate about improving student outcomes and everything I learn working in S-STEM will benefit other projects in the future.
What skill do you think is most valuable for students considering a STEM career?
Resilience is incredibly important. Every STEM discipline will have its challenges, and being willing to continue on when you find something difficult will lead to success over time.
Tell us about the most rewarding experience that you have had during your STEM career.
When I was early in my research career, I attended a conference and met a scientist whose work I had admired and respected. I was surprised to learn that he had already read my most recent journal article and was impressed by it. It was the first time I felt like I belonged as a scientist.