TaRisha Lake

How would you describe your college experience?

I would describe my college experience as the best adult/non-adult years of my life. I learned a lot about myself and what I wanted my future to look like. I remember every time I would visit my hometown, it would feel like I had an entirely different world waiting for me when I got back to the university. College is filled with so many different people and opportunities. There is a different sense of self-worth I developed internally, to know that I succeeded in college. College presents a plethora of worldly situations that I had not faced before. Once I was out of college, and now reminiscing, I am still actively using those experiences to help me make decisions today. College taught me valuable lessons, introduced me to lifelong friends, and equipped me with priceless life skills.

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

The infamous question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I remember I would say, “I want to be a Pediatrician.” Initially, I enrolled in college as a Pre-Med major. I realized that it was not the path for me. I learned about STEM going into college and I was very intrigued. Once I arrived at MTSU, I joined numerous different organizations on campus, one specifically being TLSAMP, where I met Mrs. MiMi Thomas. She was so kind, concerned, and informative. TLSAMP alone changed my life. It opened numerous doors for networking and research. By the end of my sophomore year, I switched my major to General Science with a minor in Health. It was the best decision I made. Once you are in college, there will be a lot of different changes. No matter when you decide to start your STEM educational journey, WISTEM has wonderful mentors, faculty, young ladies, and women that will be there to support you every step of the way.

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

The opportunities can be endless. You are already equipped with so much knowledge and natural instincts, just by being a woman, that can be used in your career. This is the time to start taking the classes that are hard. It gives you a chance to learn great study skills early that you will need and use later and you will be surrounded with resources to help you work through the challenges. Always, always ask questions. Anything that you think and want to know, ask. Trust me, there is always someone nearby who is wondering the same thing, or you may be the one to pass that information along one day.

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

If there are college courses available for credits and you are eligible to enroll, take those classes. If there are clubs that you can join that you find are fun or interesting, join that club. If your teacher discusses a topic that sparks your interest, ask for more details. If you know someone who has a career/job that you’re interested in, reach out to them, and ask them what their major in college was. Try to keep your eyes and ears open. You will like a million different things between now and then. Pay attention to what you enjoy participating in at school and classes you like to attend. All the information, resources, and knowledge you receive will help you determine what STEM career best fits you.

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

Be a light to students during this time of discovery. They listen to everything that is said and hold on to it. Be a voice of strength, reassurance, and support for them while they are on their journey of educational, and personal, discoveries and growth. Expose them to new opportunities and guide them out of their comfort zones. As a teacher and counselor, you wear a variety of “hats” that a student will remember for a lifetime. To this day, I remember the teachers and counselors who saw more in me than I could see in myself. They challenged me and helped me realize exactly what I am capable of. I’m from a small town and to this day, I still thank those same teachers and counselors when I get a chance to speak and catch up with them.

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

Whatever it is that you want to do, you can and you will. Every dream that you have, it will come true. Don’t let anyone make you feel or think that you are not capable of fulfilling whatever it is your heart desires. In STEM, the classes will not all be easy. You will have some challenges, but do not let that stop you. It is a speed bump, not a stop sign. Always do what works for you; not what is popular or what someone thinks you should be doing. You, young ladies, are magical. Always know that what is for you will not pass you. Have fun and enjoy the journey. The world is your oyster!