Working as an associate at a nonprofit.
I didn’t pursue a career in science after graduating. I ended up switching majors from Mathematics to Spanish and Portuguese at Berkeley. There were several reasons why I decided to leave STEM, but I do sometimes think about what things would be like if I did stay in the field. I’m now in the nonprofit sector working in social services. And even that took some figuring out - I was a public high school math teacher right out of college, worked as a mentor coordinator for undergraduate students in NYC, did some retail, and even floral design before my current role.
Life is a lot of trial and error - just like the scientific method. Say you observe something you want (or think you want). You begin to ponder some questions about how you will get there and what you need, then give said want a try, analyze and determine if the outcome was what you expected, and make your conclusions from there. Of course, it can be frustrating to jump from job to job to figure out what you like, but that’s just how an experiment goes. Knowledge of STEM is essential in everyday life, and it truly helps you comprehend the world and think logically and critically.
I miss many things about the STEM program - mainly the staff and professors who just made it all so enjoyable. I also loved and am grateful for my experience in the Summer Scholars Research Program which is unique to STEM students and allowed me to pursue real science and math work and learn along the way. I made several great connections, and am always happy to see updates from everyone on their social media. I think I was the youngest in my cohort since I was only 18. Looking back at my program experience as a whole, it really shaped who I am today. I’m a totally different individual now in my late 20s approaching my 30s, but I still geek out at the occasional science video on YouTube.
Take advantage of the transfer center if your school has it. Also while at SMC, connect with other people who are going to your transfer school. During my time at Cal, I actually ended up being roommates with someone from SMC who is now one of my closest friends who I care for and respect dearly.
Also try to join a club that you are interested in both at SMC and at your transfer university. There is something for everybody, and it’s okay if it doesn’t end up working out. I also got more comfortable being alone since Berkeley is a large school and sometimes people aren’t always available. Everyone is on their own grind, but once you find your group, your time will be exponentially better.
Really, and I mean really, consider the Summer Scholars Research Program to gain some crucial research and laboratory experience. I also had the amazing opportunity to present research from one of my classes with Dr. Rasheeda Hawk at SACNAS 2017 in Salt Lake City! There are so many opportunities and extracurriculars to get involved with in the STEM program, and you will see a lot of familiar faces, so it’s in your best interest to take advantage of these unique experiences.
Social work requires quick problem solving and critical thinking skills. I’m a people person, and what I love the most about my career are the relationships I build with others.
Don’t be afraid to try something and then walk away if it doesn’t work out. Just have a backup plan, since you will have bills to pay.
One of my favorites was the theorem for implicit differentiation using partial derivatives. Look it up.
Your counselors will be your best friends. And try to make an effort to pack your own lunch more often.
I love cooking, swimming, weight training, hiking, international travel, and occasionally some floral design!