STEMScholars
Flavia DePlachett
Bio
Here is what being a STEM Community Scholar means to her:
Becoming a STEM Community Scholar is one of the most important achievements I have accomplished so far. First off, it was an immeasurable honor to be selected among hundreds of qualified students. It gave me the certainty that I am on the right track and made me feel confident about myself and my goals. Second, the exposure that the program has given me is wonderful. I have visited several companies where I could either picture myself working at or not. Thus, I had the confirmation that certain areas of study or jobs are not the best fit for me.
Listening to professionals sharing their daily routine at work as well as giving us advice in how to succeed is inspiring and really give us the push we need to keep looking forward.
Also, the chance to expand our network is great. For instance, while visiting SDGE I met Joshua, a Mechanical Engineer who gave a short presentation at that day. He gave me some tips in how to start affiliations to some National Engineering Chapters and even offered to come to Mesa College to talk to the students. Plus, the amount of information that we have access through the emails and newsletter sent by the program is crucial. I would not have heard about the Nano Infrastructure Summer Internship Program, where I applied and was accepted.
Finally, the stipend that was offered to the students was extremely important in order for us to attend the field trips instead of working. Not having to worry about finances is a great feeling. I am very glad to be chosen as a STEM Community Scholar and as clear as the day I am sure I will be able to give to other students everything I have been given.