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STEM-Centric Career Assessments

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Science – It’s Full of Surprises! Interview with Botanist Jessica Warren

February 2nd, 2017 by

What do humans, culture, science and technology all have in common? Answer: They are all constantly evolving! In fact, there’s a whole field of research dedicated to understanding the underlying principles for how things change over time. Jessica Warren, a researcher in CSU’s molecular evolution lab describes the importance of researching this topic in her quote, “understanding the molecular basis for how organisms change over time will provide some of the most fascinating and useful advances in science in this century”. Read more of Jessica’s interview for tips about how you can best prepare for your entry into this competitive and always changing field of study.

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Double Your Value: Interview with Biologist & Mathematician Shannon Stiverson

January 25th, 2017 by

Taking courses and getting involved in opportunities outside of your specific major of choice is a great way to explore and shape your own professional niche. “While working towards my undergraduate biology degree, I met a lot of other students who really struggled with the math in their classes.  I realized that being passionate about both areas gave me unique opportunities”. Read more about how Shannon combines her two passions to develop her unique role on a university research team where she thrives.

What are potential areas of interest that you get excited about? How can you find ways to combine these interests in your future career to set yourself as a distinct, irreplaceable member of a team?

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From Molecules to (Solutions That) Matter: Chemist Rachel Feeny

January 18th, 2017 by

As a chemist Rachel Feeny finds solutions to important scientific problems through networking and collaboration. “Initially my interest in chemistry began when I realized that often solutions to real-world problems come from understanding things at a molecular level. Now I find it fascinating to take what I know and collaborate with scientists in many different fields to address shared problems”. This interdisciplinary work approach is often overlooked by STEM researchers who tend to spend a majority of their time in their respective laboratories. However, when individuals with different training backgrounds and skillsets come together, the possibilities are endless! Read more of Rachel’s interview to discover how she uses her training and network from various disciplines to foster innovated solutions to current problems.

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Making a Large-Scale Difference: Computer Scientist Gareth Halladay

November 28th, 2016 by

You never know where your interests, personal network, and perseverance will lead you in the STEM fields. This couldn’t be more true for Gareth Halladay, a present graduate student in Colorado State University’s Computer Science program. “In my undergrad I had a passion for anatomy and physiology and majored in biological sciences. Now, I look back and I am shocked because I never thought I would be in my current position where I am on the cutting edge of science and helping make new discoveries”.

Read more of Gareth’s interview to find out how she is making a difference by pairing her interests with her computer science skills to draw novel discoveries from hundreds of data sets.

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Carve Your Own Calling: Veterinary Scientist Julia Labadie

November 15th, 2016 by

Julia has always had a passion for animals. “I had three Golden Retrievers growing up – all of which died of cancer. Needless to say, I’m extremely passionate about the work I do.” However, discerning her career path wasn’t always clear and easy. “If you are interested in science and math, don’t feel like you need to go down a cookie-cutter path. If you find a subject you love, keep exploring it—talk to people with a variety of jobs to help shape your career ideals and hone your interests. It is amazing how many opportunities are out there!” Read more to of Julia’s interview to discover how she shaped her own career niche as a veterinary cancer researcher.

Dr. Anne Avery and DVM/PhD student Julia Bromberek examine "Maggie" as part of their research into cancer in golden retreivers. May 14, 2015

Dr. Anne Avery and DVM/PhD student Julia Bromberek examine “Maggie” as part of their research into cancer in golden retreivers. May 14, 2015. Photo Credit: John Eisele

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Microbiologist: Adam Heck

November 6th, 2016 by

No need to feel discouraged if you’re an aspiring scientist like Adam Heck once was. Even today Adam reminds himself, “In research you’re are going to fail… a lot. Roughly 80% of your experiments won’t make it past being a passage in your lab notebook. That does not mean those experiments were not important or that you are a bad scientist. Turn the page, and keep trying.”

Read more of his interview for tips on how you too can find your way to a successful, fulfilling career as a scientist.

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STEM Education Promotes Effective Democracy

November 3rd, 2016 by

It’s almost impossible to turn on the television without hearing news or advertisements about the United States’ upcoming election. It is certainly a privilege to live in a society where there is an effort to build a government “for the people”. With this privilege also comes responsibility.

Read Arthur Camins article “Why Science Education is Essential for Democracy” to consider the ways STEM education influences important political decisions that impact humanity. Let’s create education systems that promote positive change in and for this world.

Environmental and Radiological Health Scientist: Hailey Conover

November 1st, 2016 by

What are possible research and career paths if you are a student interested in STEM? Not surprisingly, the opportunities are endless and ever-changing. Read Hailey’s story to identify with a scientist who followed their passion for biology and is now thriving in her research on genetic diseases. There are many diverse paths you can take to find a career you love; hearing personal stories from scientists is one way you can begin to find your way!

Colorado State University cell and molecular biology Ph.D. student Hailey Conover does research on DNA repair using yeast as a model in Environmental and Radiological Science assistant professor Lucas Argueso's lab, December 17, 2015.

Colorado State University cell and molecular biology Ph.D. student Hailey Conover does research on DNA repair using yeast as a model in Environmental and Radiological Science assistant professor Lucas Argueso’s lab, December 17, 2015.

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