"Students often come into college knowing they like math or science, without really understanding the breadth of the career options," said Dr. Stacie Turnbull, assistant professor of agribusiness and STEM club advisor. "We wanted to help students gain an understanding of what careers are out there, as well as gain valuable advice from those in the field."
Students were given the opportunity to listen and speak to professionals from across the nation in the areas of agriscience, biotechnology, medical, engineering, STEM education, and psychology. Among the presenters were several York College graduates.
Dr. Aaron Fletcher ('02), president of Bios Research and managing director of Bios Partners, a venture firm focusing on life sciences, participated in the biotechnology STEM session. After receiving his bachelor of science degree from York College, Fletcher went on to get his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Colorado State University.
When asked about cancer research, Fletcher advised his audience to get involved in a clinical trial if at all possible so they could have an understanding of what goes on behind the scenes. He also emphasized the importance of getting good grades in the foundational sciences. “C’s aren’t good enough,” he said. “You need to be pulling B’s or better.”
Ja-Waun Moore, a junior biology major from Omaha, was the STEM moderator for the biotechnology session. “I got a lot out of it and I’m really looking forward to meeting Dr. Fletcher in person,” said Moore. Fletcher, who recently joined the YC Board of Trustees, invited participants to meet with him when he visits campus in the future.
“I enjoyed meeting the medical professionals via Zoom and getting a better understanding of what their jobs are truly like,” said Brooke Winquist, a junior biology major with a minor in psychology from Long Beach, Calif. Winquist referenced the advice she gleaned from YC alumni Dr. Kim (Hooten '02) Williams, a family medicine specialist in Salina, Kans.
“I appreciated what Dr. Williams said about and shadowing and mentorship as well as going on a medical-related mission trip — that they all helped her be sure that she was choosing the right profession. I also gained insight and advice on how to be successful through the education and job application process.”
STEM Career Talks presenters were Dr. Silvano Ocheya — Bayer Crop Science, Mr. Dan Leininger — Upper Big Blue NRD, Dr. Jagdeep Kaur — Bayer Crop Science, Dr. Aaron Fletcher — Bios Research, Mr. Matt Boley — Biotech Connector, Dr. Kim Williams — Salina Regional Health Center, Ms. Leah Lonsdale — York General Hospital, Dr. Ryan Koch — York Animal Clinic, Mr. Alex Heide — Central Valley Ag, Mr. Steve Tippery — Realm Five, Ms. Catherine Jones — Collins Aerospace, Ms. Kate Nainiger — Nutrients for Life, Ms. Liz Renner, Mr. Ben Hackett — Cross County School, Katherine Higgins and Katie Bell — Epworth Village.
"I was really pleased with how well the event went and excited about the future of the Professional STEM Club,” said Emily Eggar, co-President of the Professional STEM Club and YC junior from Wolf Point, Mont. “I'm excited to see fellow students eager to find their passion in the STEM area."