science education Archives - The Nerdy Goalsetter

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

Meet Dr. Robin Walker

Tell us what do you do?

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.

What is your educational background?

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

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.

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 individual’s specific learning style. It’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?

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 I’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 they’ve achieved those goals.

Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

Outside of finishing my degree, one other major accomplishment was becoming a mother. It’s a great joy to have an awesome experience to impact another person’s life. I’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.

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. From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. 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.

admin
Career, Let's Talk Science
March 22, 2020

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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?

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).

What is your educational background?

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.

Why a STEM major?

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).

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

Higher education gives a person an opportunity to succeed in today’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.

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?

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. 🙂 It melted my heart to have older women hug me saying how proud they were of me that I had made history.

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.

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. From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. 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.

admin
Career, Let's Talk Science
March 9, 2020

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

Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin

Tell us what do you do?

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?

I am a first time college graduate in my family. 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?

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 I’d give Biology a try.

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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 I’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 “making it” – 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.

Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

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

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

You don’t have to carry the world on your shoulders, but your contributions to society will be impactful!

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. From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. 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.

admin
Career, Let's Talk Science
March 2, 2020

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science education

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

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?

What is your educational background?

Why a STEM major?

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

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

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

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

What is your definition of success?

Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

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

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

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?

What is your educational background?

Why a STEM major?

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

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

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

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

What is your definition of success?

Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

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

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

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?

What is your educational background?

Why a STEM major?

Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?

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

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

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

What is your definition of success?

Any major accomplishments you would like to share?

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

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

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