Dr. Kamilah C Banks-Word, M.D., M.A.

How would you describe your college experience?

I must say that I enjoyed my college and graduate school experiences. I can recall as a high school student eagerly anticipating traveling to college to embark on new things, new surroundings, new people and endless learning opportunities. I have always enjoyed education and advancing my knowledge base in any capacity, was and continues to be exciting. College was a gateway for me to learn more about myself as I was becoming an independent young adult, but it also helped to shape and foster my ideas of what future I wanted for myself and how I would give back to the world in some way. Also, being the first female in my family to attend a university and to further pursue graduate studies and then medical school, I knew my experiences would be stepping stones for other family members and friends with similar interests. Throughout my learning, I would always share details with my siblings, cousins, and others so that they would hopefully continue to be motivated to pursue their dreams and purposes with no hesitation, regardless of potential obstacles. I really believe the college experience, from the educational aspects, interpersonal and social interactions, and overall campus life, is something every young person should experience.

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

It actually took me a long time to decide on a STEM focus. I have always enjoyed math and science (Geometry and Physics being the most fun for me 😉). However, growing up in an impoverished and underserved area, I did not have access to needed resources or persistent words of encouragement to  pursue STEM. It was not until I attended graduate school and decided that I wanted to learn more about the connection of the human body and mind, that I then decided to create a path for myself to medical school. This entailed me returning to college classes to take the needed science courses required for pre-med. I was very happy to take the courses and to get the education needed at MTSU, which led me to meet the wonderful and ever-encouraging, Dr. Judith Iriarte-Gross; and, to then become a part of the very influential WISE (Women In Science & Engineering) Student Group. The experience of being with other like-minded females in various STEM disciplines was so rewarding and I would not change it for anything. It was truly an empowering feeling and something that I look for in most settings or groups that I am a part of. Young women working together to motivate one another is always fruitful and definitely needed early on for young girls who are interested in STEM areas. Whether you decide early on or later in your educational journey, know that there are always a group of other young girls and women who are rooting for you and open to help every step of the way! 

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

STEM careers are full of endless possibilities, which is an amazing thing to be able to say. As females, we may initially pause and think that many of the careers are for males, but that is truly not the case. STEM careers are open to us all, regardless of gender. As young girls, you can decide to pursue whatever interests and goals that your minds seek to pursue. Your educational journey is your decision and it can be a tremendous amount of fun to learn things related to STEM. There are a plethora of opportunities and now more female mentors in most career areas to offer guidance and support as you decide what you want your future to look like. Being in a career in STEM has been extremely rewarding and beneficial and there is never a dull moment with all of the wonderful things that we encounter.

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

If possible, talk to someone in the field(s) that you are interested in. They can offer good advice about what steps they took to start and get on their career path. Speaking to those with experience can help to prepare you for what to expect and the provided guidance can help to save time from making potential mistakes along the way. Also, you may gain some great mentors and friends with having these discussions early on in college. Volunteering and shadowing, if possible, are also good ways to learn more about the potential careers that you are interested in. You can get some good observation time and sometimes, hands-on experience in certain areas. Reading and researching the details related to majors and careers that are of interest to you, is also highly recommended. Having the foundational knowledge and needed preparation can be the gateway to your STEM educational and career success.

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

Continue to foster and encourage the young brilliant minds that you encounter daily, they need it. The words that you speak to them are definitely heard and can be the catalyst that is needed for them to continue on a STEM path and future career. Even at times when we think the younger generation isn't listening, they are and they are absorbing the information that is given to them. I can vividly recall the teachers and mentors who pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone for a bit in order to explore opportunities that I did not think I was capable of. I must say that I am thankful for those conversations and words of encouragement, because they truly carried me throughout my educational career. I am happy to be a physician and wouldn't change any bit of the enriching process.

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

You can do anything, and I mean anything your heart desires! Please know that you all have internal gifts and the power to control what is meant for you. Don't be afraid of STEM classes, majors or careers. They all are amazing! If something peaks your interest, go for it! Give it a try and if it feels right, continue to go after it, do the needed work and you will definitely succeed. As young girls/women, you are truly the future and the life that you want for yourself is ready and available for you to grab on to it. Enjoy the journey along the way, embrace the friendships and support that you receive and know that we all are proud of you!