Jennifer Williams

How would you describe your college experience?

I can sum up my college experience in the following terms: hard work and dedication. Here at MTSU in the College of Basic and Applied Sciences we always tell our students, “Not all majors are created equal.” I learned very quickly as a new college student that this was true. In order to be successful in a STEM major, you have to be organized, determined, and have good time management skills. All of these are skills that I developed during my time in college and it did not always come easy. I noticed that as a STEM major I had to dedicate more time to homework and studying than some of my friends who were pursuing other majors outside of STEM. I had to learn to structure my time more wisely. Balancing my studies, time with my friends, and my job was a challenge but being able to manage so much made me feel very accomplished. I developed strong relationships with my professors and with faculty and staff around campus which provided me with numerous opportunities throughout my time in college. I was able to conduct research and travel to conferences across the United States to present my research. By working on campus as a student worker, I was able to build my work schedule around my classes which helped me manage my time and make lasting connections around campus.

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

I have always had a talent for Mathematics and it was a subject I enjoyed, but it was not until my senior year of high school that I really considered studying the subject. I took a Calculus class that year, and I was the go-to person for questions. It was during that time that I realized that I really enjoyed helping others understand math.

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

As an academic advisor, I get to share my experience as a student and more importantly as a former STEM major. It is extremely rewarding to be able to help other STEM majors who are struggling to find a way to balance life, work, and their studies. I am able to provide them with resources that give them the extra help they need to be successful.

I have also had the opportunity to teach a College Algebra course from time to time and the most rewarding part of that experience is seeing how far my students have come since the beginning of the semester. It is a great feeling when it comes time to prepare for the final exam and I hear my students speaking to each other about the material with a sense of understanding.

What would you tell a middle or high school girl about careers in STEM?

STEM majors have so many opportunities. There are so many jobs at their fingertips. My best advice would be to get involved in some way in the field that you want to have a career in. By gaining experience in your field of study, you will figure out whether or not that is what you really want to do. It can also open other doors for you in the future. Every connection you make is important and the hands-on experience is extremely rewarding.

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

Start getting involved in clubs or organizations in your community, middle schools, or high schools that allow you to pursue your passion for STEM. Find ways now to manage your time wisely and to develop the time management skills you will need when you get to college. Also, do not wait until you get to college to start studying the area that you are interested in. If you love Science, take as many Science classes as you can. If you love Math, take as many Math classes as you can. Do not put off doing something that you love.

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

Be encouraging to your students. STEM majors are challenging and students often need a lot of help to develop the skills they need to be successful. However, it is important to stress that the hard work is worth it. Encourage them to take Math and Science classes, especially in high school when they may not necessarily have to because they have already met the requirements for graduation. Sitting out a year from Math or Science can hurt a student when they start college, especially if they are interested in pursuing a STEM field. Encourage them to start talking to professionals in STEM fields to learn more about STEM careers.

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

Stay focused and do not forget your goal. The path to a career can be a long one and it will not always be easy. However, if you stay dedicated, determined and if you are willing put in the effort you will be successful. Keep an open mind about what careers are out there for you. I had always seen myself in the field of education and that transitioned into higher education. I had assumed that I would be a math instructor. I had never even considered a career like advising. Applying for my current position and being willing to try something new has allowed me to find a career that I truly enjoy. I still have the opportunity to teach Mathematics, I get to be involved in numerous aspects of higher education, and each day I serve as a teacher to my students as I help guide them through their college career. You will not always end up exactly where you expected you would be, but do not close the door on the opportunities that are out there for you.