On April 15, 2026, we successfully hosted “STEM Unfiltered: Life After the Classroom” at Georgia Southern University, a powerful and engaging panel discussion centered on navigating life beyond academics.
As Senators for the College of Science and Mathematics (COSM), Alysa Clarke and I had the honor of co-hosting this event, bringing together students, faculty, and professionals for an evening of honest dialogue, shared experiences, and meaningful connections.
Acknowledgments: Making This Vision a Reality
This event would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of key leaders and organizations.
First and foremost, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics (COSM) Dr. Michael Huggins for the leadership, vision, and support that made this program come to life and ensured its success. Your continued commitment to student development is deeply appreciated.
We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Student Government Association (SGA-GSU) for their partnership and dedication to promoting student engagement and leadership across campus.
A special thank you goes to the The National Society of Black Women in Medicine (NSBWM) for their collaboration and support in bringing this program together. Your commitment to empowering students, especially those pursuing careers in healthcare and STEM, continues to make a meaningful impact.
As COSM Senators, Alyssa Clarke and I are proud to have worked together in organizing this initiative, creating a platform that not only informs but empowers students to think critically about their future in STEM and beyond.
Meet and Appreciate Our Distinguished Panelists
We were honored to host an outstanding group of panelists:
- Dr. shainaz landge, Ph.D. – Associate Professor of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics
- Dr. Patel, DMD, MD – Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- Dr. Mitch Weiland, PhD - Professor of biochemistry, biomedical sciences, and Graduate program director.
- Mr. JESSE INDECHE IMONJE – Ph.D. Student in Environmental Science
- Ms.Wintana Bekele – Senior Honors Biology Undergraduate Student
We sincerely appreciate your time, openness, and willingness to share your journeys. Your insights made this discussion impactful, relatable, and truly inspiring for all attendees.
Key Takeaways from the Conversation
1. There Is No Straight Path in STEM
Career journeys are not linear, they evolve through experiences, challenges, and growth.
“Your path doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be yours.”
2. Failure Is Part of Growth
Failure is not the end, it is a necessary step toward success.
“It is okay to fail. That cannot be the end.”
3. Standing Out Requires More Than Grades
Students must go beyond academics through:
- Research
- Networking
- Leadership
- Meaningful engagement
“Students stand out when they do something more.”
4. Be Honest With Yourself
Your path should align with your passion, not external expectations.
“Be honest to yourself… If your heart is not there, you will struggle.”
5. Balance Is Key
Success requires effectively managing academics, personal life, and well-being.
Final Reflection
“STEM Unfiltered” was more than a panel, it was a reminder that:
- Growth happens through experience
- Success is personal and evolving
- Every journey is valid
As COSM Senators, Alyssa Clarke and I remain committed to creating impactful platforms that bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experiences.
To our panelists, partners, and attendees, thank you for making this event meaningful and successful.
And to every student:
Keep exploring. Keep learning. Keep becoming.
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