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The Nerdy CEO presents Black Women Who Lead Series: Introducing Dr. Jennifer Whitmon

The Nerdy CEO presents Black Women Who Lead Series: Introducing Dr. Jennifer Whitmon
Career, Leadership, Let's Talk Science, Lifestyle

Presents Dr. Jennifer Whitmon Tell Us What Do You Do? I am a Microbiologist by training with experience in infectious diseases, diagnostics, lab systems, biosafety, and quality management. I have worked in three infectious centers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). I am currently a Laboratory Safety Manager within a National Center…

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Companies that are Hiring During the COVID-19 Pandemic

What Companies are Hiring during the COVID-19 Pandemic? Try these industries if you need a job NOW!

As unemployment claims in the U.S. are skyrocketing with so many citizens now out of work and stay-at-home as well as telework orders are steady being issued throughout the country with attempts to slow the spread of coronavirus; finding work is even harder.ย 

Although a lot of small businesses have been forced to close because of the coronavirus outbreak, there is no doubt COVID-19 has increased demand for products and services.

ย This surge has, in turn, created a need for more workers causing businesses nationwide to ramp up hiring and even expedite the application processes.

Because of this, there are plenty of businesses that are operational and still looking to hire from shipping and delivery companies, to the federal government (usajobs.gov), grocery stores and delivery services, and major retail businesses.

Below I will share with you a list of companies that are hiring amidst COVID-19.

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The Federal Government is looking to fill various positions to help respond to and fight COVID-19. There are several job series available for multiple locations across the U.S. For positions that are open to the public, please ย click here.

Zoom

With millions of people being forced to stay home to help stop the spread of COVID-19, many have found creative ways to virtually stay social through web meetings, happy hours, weddings, and birthday parties. And Zoom, one of the dozens of video conferencing services, has risen to the top, thanks to social distancing.ย 

This popular video-conferencing app isย hiring for full-time positionsย across engineering, finance, IT, sales and other departments.ย 

Publix

Publix is set to hire thousands of associates to fill positions in stores and distribution centers.ย  These positions are available in all seven states Publix operates including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia and its nine distribution centers.ย 

To apply fill out an application atย www.publix.jobs.

Kroger

Kroger isย hiring 20,000 additional employeesย across retail stores, manufacturing plants and distribution centersย to meet increased consumer demand for groceries and other supply products.

From the time it takes for an employee to apply for a job, while sometimes getting hired on the spot, you can start working in as little as three days. Kroger says this latest hiring surge will take place over the next few weeks.ย ย You can check out any open positions atย jobs.kroger.com.

Walgreens

Walgreens announced it is looking to fill roughly 9,500 existing full-time and part-time roles in stores across the U.S. They are primarily seeking individuals for the following positions: Customer Service Associates, Pharmacy Technicians, and Shift Leads.

Interested candidates canย visitย jobs.walgreens.comย to search for openings in their area, with positions being added regularly based on local store and pharmacy needs. Additionally, as Walgreens continues to assess its needs related to the coronavirus situation, it will soon begin filling additional temporary CSA positionsย  to help bolster in-store staffing. Some of these temporary positions might potentially lead to full-time job placement.

Walmart

Walmart says it wants to hire 150,000 associates and fill full and part-time positions by the end of May. Jobs are available in stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers.

The company notes that the positions are temporary but could transition to permanent roles. Walmart is currently offering $150 and $300 bonuses to its part-time and full-time employees working to keep the grocery chain stocked.

If you are interested in applying visitย careers.walmart.com.

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Amazon

Amazon is opening 100,000 new full and part-time positions across the U.S. in their fulfillment centers and delivery network to meet the surge in demand from people relying on Amazonโ€™s service during this stressful time, particularly those most vulnerable to being out in public.ย ย 

Those interested in applying can learn more atย www.amazon.com/jobsnow.

CVS Pharmacy

CVSย announced plans to immediately hire 50,000 full-time, part-time and temporary workers, including store associates, home delivery drivers, distribution center employees and member/customer service representatives.ย  Those that are interested in applying should visit https://jobs.cvshealth.com.

Instacartย 

Instacart, the grocery delivery and pickup company,ย is looking to hire 300,000 full-service shoppers due to increased demand for grocery deliveries, as millions of consumers are urged toย stay homeย to limit the spread of coronavirus.

The company plans to bring on these “full-service shoppers” over the next three months.ย Instacart lets users shop from grocery stores like Whole Foods, Costco, Safeway, among others, to be delivered to their homes.

If interested in becoming a “full-service shopper”, click here to get started.

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Domino’s, Pizza Hut, & Papa Johns

These pizza franchises are hiring full-time and part-time positions, including Restaurant Team Members, Delivery Drivers and Shift Leaders.ย The companies say applicants can potentially be interviewed and start the same day.ย 

Domino’s Pizza Career Opportunities

Pizza Hut Career Opportunities

Papa John’s Career Opportunities

A FAIR WARNING:

Jobs in some of these industries require frequent exposure to the public, heightening the risk of contracting the coronavirus.ย  So if you are currentlyย  job-searching, you should definitely consider how these employers are prioritizing health and safety.ย  Are they doing temperature checks? Are they providing personal protective equipment? Are they following CDC’s recommended guidelines?ย You should also take into consideration how current employees feel about their working conditions right now.ย 

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The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Field Applications Scientist, Cheryl Bell

Introducing Dr. Cheryl Bell

Tell us what do you do?

I am a field applications scientist at Molecular Devices. In a nutshell, our company sells scientific research equipment to advance health through drug discovery. The product that I cover is a high-end microscope that can reduce the time it takes a scientist to generate data from days to minutes. I support the sales team by demoing, training, and providing seminars on our products.

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What is your educational background?

I have a BS in Biology from Jackson State University; a MS and PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology with a focus in Genetics and Genomics from the University of Connecticut; and I completed postdoctoral training at the University of Pittsburgh.

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Why a STEM major?

As a child, I was fascinated by how the body works. Specifically, how a person could be healthy one minute, and chronically sick the next morning. When I started undergrad as a Biology/Pre-med major, I planned to become a medical doctor to help people combat disease. After graduating, I decided to pursue graduate school with the intent of making a more profound impact on the health field by becoming a scientist who could pinpoint the cause and cure for disease.

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

ย For me, higher education has been the alternative to the bootstraps that I never inherited from my ancestors. When you leave an institution of higher learning, you should not only leave with knowledge and expertise in a particular subject, but you should also take with you a community/village of those who supported you in launching yourself to a new state a being: being in new rooms that were previously inaccessible, being in new tax brackets, being the head and not the tail, being held to a higher level of respect. Education can open doors for you that you never new existed.

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Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?

Naming every individual who has touched my life in a meaningful way could not be contained in a newsletter, it requires its own book(s). If I had a top 3 pick of naming names:

  1. My mother, Lillian Howell Bell-White, who champions education to this day. She has never missed a beat in encouraging and supporting her children (which is every child in the world) to be the greatest that they can imagine.
  2. Dr. Ruth Washington, a mentor and a friend, who since the day that I met her in 2006 has walked by my side from graduate school to my postdoc to my first “real job” providing wisdom, writing letters of recommendation, and being a sounding board when times got tough.
  3. The late Dr. Lee Aggison Jr., to whom I owe my Ph.D., as he stood in the gap for me when I didn’t even know that my options were divided. For that I’m forever grateful.

Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life??

Reading: I have always been an avid reader. This has helped me tremendously in growing my vocabulary, helping me to tease out important facts quickly, and figuring out the meaning in messages through context clues. All are important skills for a scientist.

Socialization: As a child, my mother made sure that my siblings and I were always occupied in some activity or another. Being socialized from an early age meant that I do not fear public speaking, I network naturally, and I am not afraid to speak up for what I want and need.

Being inquisitive: Kids are always asking, “Why?” I was no exception and continue to probe until this day. Can you guess why I am really good at being a scientist? (*Hint: Scientific Method)

Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?

My children are my major motivators. My children have been by my side throughout my academics and my career, watching every moment unfold. I know that I am an in-house role model and that they will remember what I did more than what I said. I want them to remember me as being built Ford-tough and that they have the same DNA inside of them to be the same way.

What is your definition of success?

Success to me is waking up every morning and being completely fulfilled with your life in its current state.

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Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

My biggest accomplishment was earning a Ph.D. as a single mother of 3. ย I achieved this goal while putting forth maximum effort, which resulted in an award for the best 3-minute thesis and the honor of sharing my research on national and international platforms, while simultaneously maintaining a teaching load throughout my academic career.

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If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?

Shoot for the stars and you’ll always surpass the moon!

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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?

Write the vision, make it plain, and never lose sight of your goals!

This blog post is dedicated to highlighting some amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย  From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย  They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.

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The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Program Manager Dr. Robin Walker

Meet Dr. Robin Walker

Meet Dr. Robin Walker

Tell us what do you do?ย 

I am a Program Manager for U. S. Army S&T Acquisitions in the Medical Research and Development Command. In other words, I assist in the development of medical/technological solutions that assist the warfighter on the battlefield.

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What is your educational background?

I have a Ph.D. in Plant Molecular Biology/ Biochemistry from the University of Connecticut, ย Storrs, CT and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Medgar Evers College CUNY, New York City.

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Why a STEM major?

I was always great in the sciences. In High school, I won the science award for the best academic performer in my entire graduating class. I then realized I had a passion for science and cultivated my passion throughout college and beyond. I also saw very few women of color in STEM fields. It motivates me continuously to be a role model for others that want to pursue this career path.

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

A higher education can afford you opportunities that would not be available to you without the higher education degree. For example, my current position requires that the incumbent possess a PHD. Higher education also allows you to focus on a specific topic area and become an expert in that topic area. The more education you have in some fields like STEM the more financial compensation you can demand.

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Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?

My heroes are a slew of teachers in high school who pushed me to reach my potential. I also acknowledge several professors in undergrad and grad school who assisted in my growth as a scientist and a contributor to numerous bodies of work that informed others on newly discovered information. I also salute my mom who worked tirelessly for years guiding me and promoting my love for science through the years of my education.

Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life??

I developed over the years a technique to help me retain information which consisted of me writing out notes and drawing diagrams. This technique is similar to generating a study guide that can be tailored to an individualโ€™s specific learning style. Itโ€™s worked for me from grade school all the way through grad school. Study skills, time management, and setting goals will always be a toolset that will promote success.

Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?

ย I always pray, meditate, and keep my mind on my target goals. These steps keep me grounded and help me stay focused on my ultimate goals for life. I also have support teams consisting of friends and family that help build me up when Iโ€™m feeling down.

What is your definition of success?

Success is accomplishing the goals that you have set for your life. Everyone has their own set of goals and only that individual can define if theyโ€™ve achieved those goals.

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Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

Outside of finishing my degree, one other major accomplishment was becoming a mother. Itโ€™s a great joy to have an awesome experience to impact another personโ€™s life. Iโ€™m so grateful to have the chance to pour into his life and assist him in accomplishing his life goals.

If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?

I would say keep your eyes on the prize. Do not lose focus on others who will come as a distraction in your life.

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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?

I would tell all future STEM students to focus on topics you that hold your interest. Find out early what path you are seeking to take in this journey. I would also advise them to seek out a mentor and establish a support group for themselves. This will assist them greatly in achieving success.

This blog post is dedicated to highlighting some amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย  From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย  They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.

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The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Public Health Scientist, Dr. Katie Bowden

Introducing Dr. Katie Bowden

Tell us what do you do?

ย I am the serology section lead in the Parasitic Diseases Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). I oversee 4 employees within a section that performs three different types of blood tests to diagnose 14 different parasitic diseases. Since we work on patient samples, our tests are certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Additionally, I work closely with branch-level epidemiologists for consultation when information is requested about our assays. I also work with branch-level researchers to use novel and innovative technologies to improve and expand the tests we perform.

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What is your educational background?

I have a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a PhD in Genetics, both from the University of Georgia. My primary focus of my undergraduate and graduate research was microbial genetics and molecular biology.

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Why a STEM major?

When I was a toddler, I wanted to be a surgeon. I originally decided to pursue a degree that would allow me to attend medical school, but I ย later chose to go into infectious disease research after taking a microbiology course that I was fascinated with. During my junior year of undergrad, I ended up changing my major from Biology to Microbiology, with intentions on attending graduate school.

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Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

A higher education is something no one can take away from you. I have been through many positions in my life and the one thing that has provided a foundation for success at all of them was my education.

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Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?

My father was a huge inspiration throughout my entire life. He always taught me to find a career that I loved and was passionate about. ย My father sacrificed a lot for our family and inspired me to become the independent, self-sufficient, successful woman that I have become.ย 

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Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life?ย 

Critical thinking, time management, flexibility and interpersonal skills are extremely important. Critical thinking will allow you to tackle any challenge you face.

Time management and flexibility, provides you the abilities to be efficient with your time, work smarter, and also manage unforeseen situations that arise that could have major impacts on your work.

I have always been interested in psychology and understanding different personality types and what motivates different types of people have both helped me become a better supervisor for my staff.

Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?

I try to move past the small stuff and focus on the bigger picture. Usually things get tough when I get stuck in the weeds and put focus and attention on little things that don’t have that great of an impact on the bigger picture. It can be so easy to lose track of our goals and sometimes ourselves. When you focus on the prize, you’ll be able to move in the direction that’s best for you.

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What is your definition of success?

Success to me means creating a life that will allow you to keep growing as a person and in your career. Having that ability will make your possibilities endless.

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Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

I am very proud that, in my 7 years at CDC coming straight from my PhD, I have become a full-time employee and obtained a position where I get to manage some amazingly brilliant people that teach me new things every day. I am truly blessed and extremely grateful for these accomplishments and the people that have helped me along the way.ย 

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If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?

Do what you love, don’t let anyone tell you what you can, can’t, should, or shouldn’t do.

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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?

Never be afraid to learn, even if it is from a mistake you make. I used to be terrified of messing up and now I see it as a learning opportunity and I truly embrace those moments.

This blog post is dedicated to highlighting amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย  From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย  They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.

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The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Biomedical Engineer, Calethia Johnson

Meet Calethia Johnson

Introducing Calethia Johnson

Tell us what do you do?ย 

I am a Manager of Construction Procurement Projects at a major healthcare system in the metro Atlanta area. I am responsible for planning and managing the procurement process for healthcare construction projects, which includes planning, bid analysis, cost control, contract administration, and quality control.

In the grand scheme of things, my career has predominantly encompassed facility management, construction procurement, and construction project management (design through build). As an Assistant Chief Engineer, with the federal government, I provided technical expert consultation to medical center Executive Management for all issues relative to the areas of engineering (Space and Functional Planning, Project Engineering, Maintenance & Operations, Biomedical Engineering, and Safety).ย 

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What is your educational background?ย 

I have Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Mercer University, Macon Ga. and a M.S. in Health Care Administration from Mercer University, Atlanta GA.ย 

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Why a STEM major?ย 

I absolutely love science, math, and problem solving. It was a natural progression after graduating from a Health Science and Engineering High School (with a focus on Engineering).

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Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?ย 

Higher education gives a person an opportunity to succeed in todayโ€™s global economy. Modern colleges and universities provide their students with various programs aimed at preparing them for different economic sectors and more focused careers that require specialized training (i.e. Engineering, Medicine, Law, Finance).

Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?

My mom played a pivotal role in my success. She taught me that what I learn, no one can ever take from me. What I learn, I own and can use it to my benefit. She also taught me that I can do and be anything. Most importantly, on my hardest days, she never let me quit.

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Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life?

1. Research things for yourself, don’t just take someone’s word.

2. Dig into the details. There’s so much more than what lies on the surface.

3. Never be afraid to take the road less traveled. There are often undiscovered gems along the way.

4. If there is not an opportunity, create one.

5. Don’t quit. If you feel you can’t do something, find a way or make a way.

6. Be honest when you don’t know something and find out what you need to know. That’s how you learn.

Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?ย 

I think about the generations of people that came before me to lay the foundation for the opportunities that are afforded to me. My achievements are not just for me and my family, they are for my ancestors and my future generations.

What is your definition of success?

Attaining self-fulfillment and walking in your purpose, on purpose, while reaching back to help others.

Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

While I have had several accomplishments over the past few years in my career; one that I can say I am most proud of is being the first African American Engineer at a previous employer. I was in complete awe that people wanted to come see who I was because I was a unicorn. ๐Ÿ™‚ It melted my heart to have older women hug me saying how proud they were of me that I had made history.

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If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?

Your dreams are never too big and never impossible. Just figure out how to make them happen. Most importantly, seek God’s direction for your purpose. He will direct your path.

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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?

Nike said it best, “Just do it!”

This blog post is dedicated to highlighting amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย  From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย  They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.

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The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Professor Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin

Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin

Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin

Tell us what do you do?ย 

I am an educator in several regards, but currently hold a faculty position as a Professional Educator of Biology at Western New England University in Springfield, MA.

What is your educational background?ย 

I ย am a first time college graduate in my family. ย I have a B.S. in Biology from Stillman College, Tuscaloosa, AL., a M.S. in Microbiology from the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, and a PhD in Food Microbiology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Why a STEM major?ย 

Growing up, the measure of success in my neighborhood was becoming a doctor or a lawyer. I was always good at math, but science came naturally (I never had to study or work hard at it), so seeing that I was interested in medicine and how it is used to help heal people, I thought Iโ€™d give Biology a try.

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?ย 

I live by the mantra that the one thing no one can ever take from you is your education (knowledge). They can cast you into a box based on your life experiences, and doubt your abilities, but when you can back things with concrete evidence noting will refute it.

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Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?

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Aside from family, Dr. Lee A. Aggison, Jr. – the first person to introduce me to independent laboratory research and build my self-confidence. Dr. Ruth A. Washington, wife of Dr. Aggison. – Success personified is what I call her. When I stepped on the campus of Stillman College she was what I envisioned myself to be…. A black female excelling in a male dominated field.

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Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life??

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Learn to fail; it’s OK โ€“ I came across a sign one day which read: FAIL = First Attempt In Learning. Thereโ€™s no way you can know everything about something thatโ€™s being introduced for the first time. Donโ€™t exhaust your energy trying to please others. This is YOUR life, so go after whatever it is that YOU desire. Donโ€™t just wish for it but work for it! โ€œIf you want something youโ€™ve never had. You must be willing to do something youโ€™ve never done.โ€ – Unknown

Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?ย 

I remember those who have helped me get to where I am today. In me asking how can I ever repay you, the only response Iโ€™ve ever received is to pay it forward. Make sure you help someone in every way imaginable to attain their highest potential.

What is your definition of success?

During graduate school, I had a hand made sign on my desk: Success is 99% failure. So, success to me is commitment, perseverance, determination. It is not merely a measure of you โ€œmaking itโ€ – which is what I thought as a child, but the continual pursuit of being better. Having the wherewithal to know that success is an evolutionary process whose path changes as you grow.

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Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

My education has opened doors for me in every area of employment; Iโ€™ve worked in Industry, government and academia.

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If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?

You donโ€™t have to carry the world on your shoulders, but your contributions to society will be impactful!

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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?

Trust the process!

This blog post is dedicated to highlighting some amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย  From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย  They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.

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Just a Girl That Decided to Go For It

The Dream is Always Worth It

When weโ€™re young we all have dreams of what we can accomplish in life.ย  Having a dream is easy.ย  Making it come true is hard.ย  As a child growing up, I like many others had a dream.ย  Going to a good school and obtaining a college degree was the only way to fulfill long term goals and to make money.ย  So I thought.ย  Follow your dreams. ย Follow your passion. They say.ย  So I did. ย 

A few degrees later and more than 10 years of experience in my profession as a Scientist, I established a career that I became very passionate about.ย  One of my long term goals early on as a student was to one day work at the CDC.ย  Working in Public Health was (still is) a passion of mine.ย  I loved the idea of solving problems, identifying solutions, and helping others.ย  Not only being intrigued by infectious diseases and outbreaks, I felt it was a good way to contribute and give back to the community by working in public service.ย 

Employed as a government contractor, I joined thousands of other colleagues in the quest of Saving Lives and Protecting People 24/7. Throughout my tenure of working as a scientist, Iโ€™ve dealt with multiple government shutdowns and more recently the loss of my contract due to lack of government funding while on maternity leave.ย  I felt compelled to share my story because I felt that someone else could relate or it just may inspire someone else.

After spending years chasing my dreams and establishing myself as a career driven woman, I shifted my focus to concentrate more on my personal life.ย  Fast forward to present day. Iโ€™m a wife and first time mom to an adorable baby girl.ย  With all of the anxiety and excitement that comes along with these roles, my life literally changed forever.ย  It is said that motherhood is the toughest job youโ€™ll ever love.ย  I have to say I completely agree 100%.ย  In fact, it was the birth of my daughter that kicked off this whole โ€œI want to do something greater, have a bigger impact, while building my brand and leaving a legacyโ€ side of me.

I have always been the type of girl that likes to strategically plan out everything that I want to see manifest in my life.ย  Now for the most part, it does happen. However, not always in my timing.

Self-Disclosure: I initially thought I would return to work after my 12 weeks of maternity leave.ย  At least I thought so.ย  This mama was ready to get back to business. ย But life had a way of slowing me down and keeping me โ€˜stillโ€™ at home just a little while longer….and longer than I expected. The loss of my contract and becoming unemployed after having a baby was totally unexpected and I was completely caught off guard.ย  Truth is I didnโ€™t know what to do in that moment. ย I was inundated with soooo many questions such as….”How much time are you taking off?” Or “When are you going back to work?” ย My response was very generic but in my mind, all I could think about was how am I going to care for my brand new baby and still live comfortably? ย Of course my husband was still working full time and providing for us (so thankful for him); however I am a millennial woman and most millennial women now a days are described as “Miss Independent” and like to make their own money. ย 

Talk about a life lesson. ย I think God knew exactly what he was doing. ย Want to know another self disclosure? ย While out on maternity leave and being unemployed, I did what any other normal person would do…..I began applying for jobs. ย Applying for jobs became my full-time job. ย How many of you can relate to that? ย The job market at the time was slow to hiring but I managed to have gotten a few interviews in the process. ย Out of all the interviews I had gotten, I did NOT receive one call back. ย But I did not let that stop nor discourage me from pushing forward. ย Almost a year later, I was finally able to go back to work full-time at the CDC.ย 

From this experience I gained the time and mental space needed to collect and gather my inner thoughts and figure out what my next moves were.ย  Furthermore, it allowed me the time I so desired and needed to nurture my baby and embrace this new hat that Iโ€™m wearing as a mommy and Iโ€™m so thankful for it. With that, I was allowed to press the reset button and honestly, it has been the most humbling and transformational experience for me.ย  Not only was I able to stay at home for a while longer with my daughter, but I also had a chance to rediscover myself.ย  Who was I? ย What was my purpose? In that moment, I knew I needed to identify with the new person I had become.

Having said that, Iโ€™ve spent the last few months brainstorming, networking, and educating myself on whatโ€™s next. ย So I decided to take a leap of faith and start my own business.ย ย  Now who doesnโ€™t love a girl boss?ย  Shout out to all of my girl bosses out there making moves, inspiring others, and empowering other women.ย  I put my head down and got straight to work.ย  I learned the skills I needed to grow.ย  Now of course I am still working as a scientist.ย  But what gets me is that I know there are other women out there in this world who have dreams and GOALSโ€ฆ..but there are some who just donโ€™t know how to reach them.ย  Thatโ€™s why Iโ€™m writing this post today.

# GIRL BOSS

I have been established in my career for some timeย and have been extremely successful with it.ย  I have always had the passion to mentor others who are just as passionate about fulfilling their goals and dreams. What I have learned throughout this experience is that life will definitely throw you some curve balls but it is up to us to take that curve ball and make it a grand slam. Sometimes in life we have to shift our priorities and focus on whatโ€™s important at hand.ย  I had to remind myself that its ok to be still.

Lifeโ€™s lesson….Donโ€™t ever give up on your dreams. When one door closes, several more will open.ย  Now I donโ€™t want you to think that I have it all figured out because I donโ€™t.ย  Just like you and everyone else, Iโ€™m still learning. And learning A LOT.ย  The greatest and hardest part about sharing my story is that isnโ€™t quite over yet because it is still being written.ย  I have learned so much in life. Still learning actually.ย  Iโ€™m hoping you will join me for the ride and I pray you find some encouragement and inspiration from my posts.ย  As I return to the workforce, I am beyond excited to embark upon this new journey not only as a career woman but as a working mom, and now a GIRL BOSS. ย I share in the hope that something Iโ€™ve learned along the way may help you on your path and journey.

Xo!!!

ย 

ย Motivational Tip: ย The best way to predict your future is to create it.

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