Brooke Duke

How would you describe your college experience?

As a first generation college student, I felt completely lost at times. However, I made many connections and got involved in various activities in and around campus! I started out at a community college where I connected with some of the most amazing people in organic chemistry, better known as the Organimaniacs (you can find us on YouTube). I then accepted a Transfer Fellowship from the Honors College at MTSU. Again, I felt very overwhelmed going from a relatively small community college to the largest university in the state! I quickly developed a support system in the Honors College that eventually branched out to involvement in Housing and Residential Life as a resident assistant as well as being an official host for the university as a Student Ambassador. The support systems that I created aided in my success and got me through the challenging times.

When did you know that you wanted to major in a STEM discipline?

I was never the typical girly-girl growing up. I wanted microscopes and telescopes for birthday presents. I even had my own crime scene kit as well as a tree house that served as my laboratory. The summer before my senior year of high school, I was given the opportunity to attend the National Student Leadership Conference on Forensic Science in Washington, D.C. For two weeks, I was immersed in various workshops that exposed me to impression evidence, fingerprint examination, DNA testing, and documentation. I even worked a mock crime scene and presented those findings in a mock trial! This conference instilled the confidence and drive that I needed to continue to pursue my dream of becoming a forensic scientist. I will forever be grateful for the friendships and skills that I developed while attending NSLC.

What is the most rewarding thing that you do in your job as a STEM professional?

Microanalysis encompasses numerous disciplines from fiber analysis, gunshot residue, fire debris, paint analysis, impression evidence and comparisons, etc. It seems like I am constantly learning something new! I never know what I am going to encounter next—every day is something different.

I also enjoy that I get to respond to crime scenes where the main task is to locate, document, and collect all of the crucial evidence as well as bringing that evidence back to the lab for analysis. It feels great to see a task from start to finish.

What should middle and high school girls be doing to prepare themselves for college and a STEM careers?

Find what works best for you. Pursuing a degree/career in STEM is challenging. Know your study habits and how you best retain that information.

If you set your mind to it, you can do it! STEM is a very rewarding field. The challenges you face, make the end result that much better!

What advice do you have for teachers and counselors who are assisting students prepare for a STEM major and career?

Find opportunities for the students! Hands-on, real-world projects aid in the development of critical skills for problem solving, teamwork, time management, communication and leadership are key for preparing for a STEM major and career.

Being exposed to as many STEM careers can open students’ eyes to the endless opportunities available!

What career advice would you give to girls if you only have two minutes?

• Step outside the box! Try new things. Get out of your comfort zone.
• It’s okay to mess up. Mistakes happen. Collect yourself and try again!
• Learn from those mistakes. Don’t let that keep you down. Evaluate the situation and use that for growth. There’s always room for improvement.