The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) S-STEM hosted the second annual Scholar and Principal Investigator (PI) Meeting at the Hyatt Regency Chicago on November 8-10, 2024 in Chicago, IL. Scholars were nominated and selected to attend the 2024 conference.

The Meeting was an amazing opportunity for everyone to represent their academic institution and S-STEM program while connecting with hundreds of other S-STEM scholars from across the country; learning about a wide range of STEM career pathways, internship, and educational opportunities; engaging in professional development activities; and meeting potential employers. In addition, there was an opportunity for scholars and PIs to present a research poster, participate in the Career & Education Fair, and explore the city of Chicago!

The trip was fully supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and organized by the S-STEM REC. Thanks to financial support from the National Science Foundation, round-trip airfare, meals during the meeting, a travel stipend, and hotel nights were funded for scholars to attend!

There were a total of 26 attendees representing PRISM, Scholars (17) and PI Cohort (9). Below are special reflections from their Chicago experience!

PRISM Scholars

Several scholars had the unique opportunity to present their research, see images below. Also outlined below are reflections scholars shared regarding what they learned and advice for other PRISM Scholars about attending a conference.

Attendees

Augsburg University: Asli Ahmed (Computer Science), Krystal Bollinger (Mathematics), Jason Jopp (Computer Science), Bruk Kassie (Computer Science), Elias Muy-Landi (Biochemistry), Deontre Lofton (Mathematics), Ryan Nguyen (Biology), Evan Worrell (Biology), and Emily Yang (Biology)

Century College: Alexis Banks (Computer Engineering) and Sophia Bliss (Computer Science)

Minneapolis College: Maryia Daniliuk (Biology) and Sadie Taggert (Pre-Engineering)

Normandale Community College: Naol Atomsa (Computer Science), Mikael Durell (Computer Science), Anderson Soth (Computer Science), and Colton Stewart (Engineering)

Reflections

Asli-Augsburg

At the S-STEM Conference, I learned the importance of sharing my work by presenting my research poster and engaging in conversations with faculty and students across different disciplines. The recurring theme of using science to drive change helped me understand the value of advancing my ideas through research.

I would advise students to make the most of their experience by attending sessions that are interesting to them and actively listening to the advice of key speakers. Apply their insights to your own circumstances, whether it’s about navigating challenges or making an impact in STEM. It’s a great way to shift your perspective and provide motivation for achieving your goals!

Krystal-Augsburg

In attending the S-STEM conference, I learned how to further branch out beyond just my safety and comfort zone that I have created here at Augsburg. I learned how to speak up for myself and to build a network of other like-minded students. The sessions available weren't just focused on building students who could be employees, they also offered options to build yourself as a person and ways to take care of you as a whole. Going into this, I felt a bit like an outsider. I haven't done research yet. My career field doesn't require continuing on to a Master's Degree, although it would help. My degree plan also doesn't require that I do internships to get to where I want to be, but I did find a field that I am very interested in pursuing more information on in the future and seeing where it might take me.

Advice for future students: Go. The best advice I can give you is to take the chance and put yourself out there. Sometimes it doesn't feel like this would be right for you, but I can guarantee that you will find something that will resonate with you. You never know, you may find yourself inspired in a way you never imagined possible.

Maryia-Minneapolis College

Presenting my research at the “2024 S-STEM Scholars & PI Meeting” in Chicago was an incredible experience in terms of networking. I shared my work with other students (and judges), got valuable feedback and insights for future directions. I was able to connect not only with other students in the field, but also with professors. This experience has shown me the importance of communicating in the academic field.

In terms of research project that I presented there, I have learned how to state a scientific hypothesis, develop a research plan, weekly work on the project and deal with the challenges and fails which are inevitable for science. I also strengthened my bioinformatics skills by using different genetic platforms (such as Galaxy, Blast, Qiagen and KBASE) to analyze the genetic data.

Additionally, visiting the exhibit halls was very beneficial. I learned about different graduate programs and universities, and I also improved my networking skills by connecting with representatives and getting contact information for internships and undergraduate summer research opportunities.

Advice to other students about attending a conference. If I could give advice to other students, I would say to prepare ahead of time, so you feel confident about presenting your poster (or oral speech). Take every opportunity to meet people and ask questions (they are usually excited to share their experiences). Make a plan for what you want to see and do at the conference, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Be sure to leave some time to explore the city and enjoy the experience. Most importantly, be yourself and make the most of it!

Mikael-Normandale Community College

I learned a lot of things from the poster sessions and I enjoyed the workshops a great deal. I learned more about how to use AI, how to study better, and quite a bit about networking. Mostly I learned how to more broadly apply my STEM education and how diverse the applications for STEM really are. I really liked seeing more people like myself there and how easy it was to actually meet and talk to people with similar professional interests. It was overall an incredible experience for me. I also have quite a few more resources, opportunities, and contacts that I did not have before.

Advice to other students about attending a conference: Definitely plan ahead and figure out which workshops they want to attend beforehand. Depending on the location, they should definitely look up sights they want to visit and restaurants they want to go to. I made a whole list of places I wanted to explore and restaurants I wanted to check out and was fortunate to cross off most of them. I feel like I really made the most of my time in Chicago as a result and I didn't really stress! Also, if they are booking their travel over the phone, definitely don't hesitate to ask for an earlier flight to the location or a later flight back. I requested a later flight back so I could spend more time exploring Chicago and it was fantastic.

Jason-Augsburg

I learned that presenting a poster at a conference is much more fun than I thought it would be. I got to talk to people who shared a common interest in machine learning and computer vision. So they'd usually have a pretty experienced perspective and their own interesting projects. Often I'd be asking about their work as much (or more) than they were about my poster. The poster itself is really just bait for attracting interesting conversation.

I'd highly recommend presenting a research poster. It's a great way to practice explaining your project, networking, and gaining perspective from other researchers.

Evan-Augsburg

While listening to various STEM panels and attending various workshops, I kept hearing a really important piece of wisdom that I would give as a piece of advice to any STEM first year student: it is important to explore your career options before settling on one. Maybe you are about to graduate and have no idea what to do, or maybe you're working to realize your childhood answer to the question "what do I want to be when I grow up". Whatever your situation is, take the opportunity to learn what piques your interest and what turns you off by trying new things. Take an offer for an internship you didn't see yourself doing, or take a few years between graduation and graduate school to job hop. It's just as valuable to learn what you dislike than to learn what you like. It can help you become more well rounded and discover passions and strengths you didn't know you had.

You get out of the experience what you put in. Take the opportunity to ask as many questions as possible to maximize your learning. Ask poster presenters about their research. Go up to representatives of different colleges and organizations and ask about their opportunities relevant to you. Fully participate in the workshops. Practice your networking skills. These things could help you gain clarity on your career path or lead you down a totally new one.

Emily-Augsburg

The most impactful thing that I learned after returning from the conference is the importance of network building and stepping outside of your comfort zone. My piece of advice is to be open-minded when attending out-of-state events, and even in-state events because that makes the experience more enjoyable and easier for you to build genuine relationships.

PRISM PI Cohort

There was also an opportunity for the PIs to present. Thanks to Jessica Bell and Renu Kumar for representing PRISM with poster presentations and Alex Ajayi for serving as a panelist for the closing plenary!

Rebekah Dupont co-facilitated a workshop for PIs in collaboration with members of the PROSPECT team, titled "Invisible Labor: Shining a Light on the Hidden Work Entailed in Successful S-STEM Projects". She also co-led two workshops for scholars titled, "Mastering Tough Scenarios: Role-playing for Effective Solutions" in collaboration with SIG S-STEM colleagues.

Attendees

Augsburg University: Jennifer Brookins-King, Rebekah Dupont, Matthew Haines, Amy Larson, Michael Wentzel.

Century College: Jessica Bell and Joann Pfeiffer

Minneapolis College: Renu Kumar

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: Alex Ajayi

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Region IV held its Fall Regional Conference in Milwaukee, WI, from November 22nd to Sunday, November 24th at the newly expanded Baird Center.

This year’s theme, “INSPIRE! EXCEL! IMPACT!” guaranteed an unforgettable experience centered around mental health, civic engagement, AI, and entrepreneurship. It was a thrilling weekend filled with impactful workshops, fierce competitions, unmatched networking opportunities, and a cutting-edge career fair designed to propel your future to new heights.

Augsburg LS-NSSA Scholars

The "elite eight" represented Augsburg at the 2024 regional conference. How was their experience? Read their reflections below as each shared what they learned and advice for other LS-NSSA Scholars in attending a conference.

Reflections

Sadaq Abduille-Computer Science

I attended the NSBE Regional Conference hosted in Milwaukee from November 22nd to the 24th. It was an incredible opportunity to network, and it seemed highly likely to secure an internship as many companies were conducting onsite interviews. This was very encouraging and inspiring.

The weekend was packed with various events, including sessions on financial planning for engineers after graduation, professional development workshops, and classic networking events where students connected with one another. I had the chance to meet amazing individuals in tech, hear from great speakers, and immerse myself in a space filled with Black excellence. This experience truly motivated me to keep striving for success and never give up on my aspirations."

Asli Ahmed-Computer Science

I learned the value of engaging with new peers, mentors, and recruiters by asking thoughtful questions. These conversations helped me gain valuable insights about new opportunities and different career paths. This experience showed me the importance of how being proactive and curious can lead to meaningful connections and personal growth.

I would advise students to prepare beforehand by practicing their elevator pitches, engaging in interview prep, and reviewing the schedule to identify key panels or sessions. Knowing where you want to go can make navigation easier and maximize your time. Also, being open to conversations and following up with people you’ve connected with is important for building professional relationships!

Suheyb Ali-Management Information Systems

Attending the NSBE conference in Milwaukee taught me the importance of networking and how valuable it is to connect with professionals and peers who share similar career goals. I gained insight into career opportunities in engineering and technology, learned about the importance of diversity in these fields, and picked up practical tips for personal and professional development. The workshops and panels helped me understand how to navigate challenges and stay motivated while pursuing my goals.

If you're attending a conference like NSBE, go in with a plan. Research the sessions, speakers, and companies beforehand to make the most of your time. Be open to meeting new people, and don't be afraid to ask questions during workshops or panels. It shows you're engaged and eager to learn. Also, bring plenty of resumes and be prepared to discuss your goals when networking. Finally, take notes to reflect on what you learned and follow up with people you connected with after the event.

Eleie Guleid-Computer Science

Throughout the conference I engaged with professionals, and I learned about the importance of belonging in a community of engineers. I acquired strategies for interview preparation and gained a ton of motivation and confidence hearing about others' success stories. The conference also had industry leaders and future engineers who shared similar passions and interests as me. Overall, the conference motivated me to stay sharp and see all the emerging talent in STEM.

My advice to other students about attending conferences is to make the best out of your time and take advantage of all the opportunities around you. There are so many talented people that go to conferences so ask questions and try to meet new people. The more you network with others, the better it is for you. Also, be a great listener. There are a lot of great speakers and people who attend conferences like NSBE, so bring your water and be ready to listen!

Zuhur Hade-Biochemistry

I learned so much at the NSBE Regional Conference! The career fair taught me about different jobs and companies, and I got advice on how to prepare for my future career. The Visionary Woman panel was super inspiring because I heard amazing stories from women who succeeded in their fields. "Beauty in Engineering" showed me how creativity and science go together to make cool things. Overall, I gained new ideas about what I can do in life and how I can achieve my goals.

If you get a chance to attend a conference, go for it! It’s a great way to meet people who can guide you, like professionals and mentors. You’ll learn about new opportunities and career paths you may not have thought about before. Be open to asking questions and trying new things. Take notes and collect resources like business cards or pamphlets, they’ll help you later. Most importantly, have fun and make the most of it!

Rudwan Hussein-Computer Science

Attending the NSBE Regional Conference was an enriching experience where I learned about the importance of networking and the value of connecting with professionals and peers in STEM fields. I gained insights into career pathways and discovered new strategies for success in both academics and professional environments.

For students considering attending a conference, my advice is to prepare by researching the event beforehand, come ready with questions, and be proactive in engaging with others. Conferences are excellent opportunities to grow your network and knowledge, so make the most of every moment.

Ahlam Yusuf-Computer Science

I learned more about what companies are currently looking for and had a chance to network with recruiters and my peers. This experience gave me the chance to better prepare myself for any other conferences that may be coming up in the future. As well as the application processes because talking to the recruiters gave me better insight into what they might be looking for in applications.

My advice to students would be to perfect your pitch beforehand. Having your pitch down and why you would like to work for certain companies makes a huge difference, and helps you come off as more confident and well-prepared.

S-STEM REC

The Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) Resource & Evaluation Center (REC) aims to increase the number of talented low-income students who obtain degrees in STEM and enter the STEM workforce.

S-STEM Scholars and Alumni sign up to receive information and resources to support your success in STEM careers!

NCUR 2025 @Pittsburgh | April 7-9, 2025

David L. Lawrence Convention Center | Pittsburgh, PA

The National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) is dedicated to promoting undergraduate research, scholarship and creative activity in all fields of study by sponsoring an annual conference for students. Unlike meetings of academic professional organizations, this gathering of student scholars welcomes presenters from all institutions of higher learning and from all disciplines. Overall, this conference offers a unique environment for the celebration and promotion of undergraduate student achievement; provides models of exemplary research, scholarship, and creative activity; and offers student career readiness development. Find out more about the history of NCUR here.

General information about registration rates, travel discounts, a preliminary schedule at a glance, hotel information, and more are available on our NCUR site, here.

NCUR 2025 is now accepting abstracts from undergraduate research students in over 50 different disciplines as well as abstracts for our mentor-led sessions. Find out more information on how to submit, the guidelines and requirements, and more through the button above. Abstract submissions close on Friday, December 6, 2024. Click below to submit your abstract.

The Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity is a partnership between government agencies and laboratories, industry, and higher education. GFSD's goal is to increase the number of American citizens with graduate degrees in the physical sciences and related engineering fields, emphasizing recruitment of a diverse applicant pool.

Since inception in 1989, GFSD has awarded 467 graduate fellowships. Of those fellows, 204 have received a PhD and 92 have received an MS. Sixty-six students are currently enrolled. Ninety-five percent of GFSD fellows have been minority, female, or both, those historically underrepresented in science. Recent alumni have received PhD's from Caltech, Cornell, Duke, George Washington, North Carolina State, Stanford, Texas A & M, UC Berkeley, University of Chicago, University of Illinois, University of Maryland – CP, University of Michigan, University of Missouri, and University of Wisconsin.

By helping to provide a continuous source of scientists who are U. S. citizens, employers and universities can achieve diversity and balance in our nation's scientific community. In turn, GFSD can help today's promising young scientists — tomorrow's science leaders — to realize their dreams.

The GFSD Graduate Fellowship is unique in being: open to all American citizens; lasting for up to six years; providing a $20,000 annual stipend; covering tuition; allowing a fellow also to hold a research or teaching assistantship; including one or two paid summer internships with a government agency; providing a mentor and the opportunity for a lasting relationship with the sponsor.

The application is easy to complete, requiring the same information as other national fellowships. The online application typically opens August 31 and closes in December.

If you have interned, have been employed or are employed by a government agency or laboratory, ask your mentor or research supervisor to nominate you directly for an GFSD fellowship. Contact GFSD for details.

By 2028, it is estimated that there will be more than a million jobs in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) field. At the same time, a decline in qualified STEM professionals means a number of positions are going unfilled. STEM-designated programs, such as the ones offered at Seton Hall, are critical to producing professionals to work in fields that benefit U.S. economic growth and overall global competitiveness. In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has classified STEM careers as having some of the greatest growth potential and the highest paying salaries for the 21st century.

Click below for more information:

TREND is a 10-week undergrad summer research program in nonlinear dynamics at UMD College Park, funded by the NSF (award PHY-2150399.) and housed in IPST (Institute for Physical Science & Technology).

Projects are computational, experimental, theoretical, or a combination of these. Topics include:

2D materials | collective behavior | biophysics | chaos | lasers | neural networks | optoelectronics | particle physics/particle rings | photonics | plasma reconnection | quantum nanodevices | robotics | turbulence | weather prediction

TREND 2025 is expected to run June 2 to August 8. Applications are expected to be due February 14, 2025.

Want to chat? Schedule a virtual meeting with Daniel Serrano (Program Director): https://calendly.com/trend-reu or dsvolpe@umd.edu

NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) paid internships allow high school and college-level students to contribute to the agency’s mission to advance science, technology, aeronautics, and space exploration.

OSTEM internships offer students an opportunity to gain practical work experience while working side-by-side with mentors who are research scientists, engineers, and individuals from many other professions. Internships may be full time or part time; and, they may be on a NASA center or facility, or even working from your home or dorm.

Join our NASA team and gain valuable on-the-job experience, build your resume, and strengthen your career readiness. We offer three sessions annually, so visit our website often for opportunities.

2025 Internship Application Deadlines:
Summer 2025 – Early Decision: Oct. 25, 2024; Final, Feb. 28, 2025
Fall 2025: May 16, 2025

Genentech is a biotechnology company dedicated to pursuing groundbreaking science to discover and develop medicines for people with serious and life-threatening diseases. Our transformational discoveries include the first targeted antibody for cancer and the first medicine for primary progressive multiple sclerosis.

At Genentech, our achievements stem from curiosity, a passion for knowledge and a desire to make a difference. Whether you're a student or a recent grad, our internship program offers unparalleled access to meaningful projects and some of the most accomplished experts in their field. ​​​​​​​

GRADUATING OR LOOKING FOR AN INTERNSHIP SOON?

The Wallin UpTurnships Program Application for Fall 2024 – Summer 2025 is now open! Students can follow this link UpTurnships - Wallin Education Partners (wallinpartners.org) and click on the “Apply Now” button to get started. The application process has been updated and ask that students applying create an account. This allows students to complete the application in multiple sessions instead of having to complete it all at once. It also gives us the ability to show them their progress through the application process on an individualized portal.

Students can apply to multiple programs with a single application – Fall Projects, Spring Projects and Summer Internships. There are a number of exciting projects lined up for the Fall in areas like Data Analytics, Marketing, Finance, and Accounting).

As a reminder, this program serves high-potential, under-represented college students from low-income backgrounds.

Please reach out if you have any questions!

Heidi Hegenbarth

Tel: (952) 452-9604

Career Development Manager

https://calendly.com/heidi_h

SciTech connects college STEM majors to paid internships at small Minnesota companies -- it's a one-stop shop for finding STEM internships statewide! Gain hands-on experience, network with pros, build your resume, and "earn while you learn."

In order to be eligible for SciTech internships, students must meet the following criteria:

• Minnesota resident OR living in and attending college in Minnesota
• At least 18 years of age
• In good academic standing (2.5+ GPA)
• College junior or senior (at least 60 credits completed) OR
• Technical or community college student (at least 24 credits completed) OR
• Enrolled in a STEM degree at an accredited U.S. college
• Legally eligible to work in the U.S. (international students may participate if they have CPT/OPT work authorization)

Deadline to apply: Varies

For more information on how to apply and to view a list of current internship opportunities, visit https://scitechmn.org/.

• Diversity in Action: November/December 2024 Issue

  At the forefront of the art and culture scenes for 50 years, FUTURA graces our November/December cover and discusses his work, influences, military service and more. We examine innovations making travel more accessible for those with disabilities as well as how AI helps with animal conservation. Plus, you'll learn the inspiring story of determination for one inventor whose decades of work finally brought a product to market. Read Now!: Diversity in Action Nov/Dec, 2024 Issue

• NSF-supported research impacts nearly every field of science and engineering. NSF's influence reaches from the ends of the Earth to the depths of the oceans and to space and beyond. Our Multimedia Gallery has some of the most stunning images from NSF’s research legacy. We have pulled some of the most beautiful gallery images for you to use as a virtual background.

Do you have suggestions for opportunities to include in the upcoming newsletter? Feel free to forward them to stem@augsburg.edu.

Email: stem@augsburg.edu
Website: https://www.augsburg.edu/stem/
Location: 2211 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: (612) 330-1042