Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math – fanatically nicknamed STEM – is an integral part of our daily lives. Think:
- What you eat and how you eat it
- Your daily commute, transportation and urban development
- Communicating on cell phones or listening to our favorite playlist
STEM is everywhere. The phenomenon is the cornerstone of our global workforce and is certainly at the core of a myriad of careers students can explore. Here at Paradise Valley Community College, students are discovering that the skills acquired through our STEM program is opening doors to a world full of possibilities.
Blending a bit of innovation and science with some curiosity and common sense can put STEM students on the fast track to rewarding careers in various industries such as research, military, government, hospitals and education.
“The list is exhausting,” said Professor Casey Durandet, a physics instructor at PVCC. “STEM skills are in extremely high demand because many employers, even outside the science realm, seek out individuals who can work well with others and problem solve. STEM aligns students interests with their strengths, which leads to successful skills that are readily transferable to other job markets.”
Durandet suggested that students interested in the STEM program need to be patient but persistent. “Discover the joy of learning and realize the journey is a continuous learning process,” she said. Other tips include forming study groups and reach out with questions. “Everyone benefits from everyone else’s experiences. STEM is all about collaborative work, no one works in a silo.”
The PVCC STEM program is holding an alumni panel discussion for students. Former students will discuss how they have forged careers in competitive fields, ideas for when you are unsure of your career path, transfer information for STEM majors, plus much more. Visit http://bit.ly/STEM_Alumni to RSVP. This event will be held in KSC 1000A from 2:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. on February 19th.