Skip to main content

Speaker Series

LSMRCE in collaboration with the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation hosts live, interactive events where participants can ask their most pressing questions and share their thoughts and ideas. Topics include everything from life management skills, to preparing for graduate school, to exploring different careers and pathways in STEM.

All students are welcome!

Each session will be recorded and posted to this webpage. Check this page often for updates!

2023 Spring Speaker Seriess logo

2023 Upcoming Webinars

No header this contact info table No header this contact info table No header this contact info table No header this contact info table
DATE TIME TOPIC REGISTRATION
No webinars currently scheduled

Request A Topic

Our goal is to provide students in the LSAMP and LSMRCE community the tools and information they need to be successful. We ask students to please click the button below to submit any requests for topics that we have not covered, or if we have, but more in-depth information is needed.
Submit Request

Recorded Session

Brand Management

Learn what personal branding is, why personal branding is important in promoting your skills, and how to leverage social media to promote your brand. Recorded June 8, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

LinkedIn and Digital Resumes

Whether you are applying to graduate school, jobs, or summer research internships, your digital presence matters! Dr. Cammi Valdez leads a discussion to learn how to improve your digital presence to help land the opportunity you are pursuing. During this workshop, we will discuss LinkedIn, creating a digital resume accessible to your network, and social media for young professionals.

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Networking in the New Normal

Brian Thomas leads a discussion on how networking has changed with social distancing. Learn the importance of professional networks in making the connections that lead to jobs, research opportunities, and much more. Recorded July 1, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Download Professional Org List | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Get a Job!

Attention graduate students and students entering in the workforce! This webinar discusses the job acquisition process in academia and in corporate/industry. Brian Thomas leads a discussion with Drs. Ben Flores, Professor of Engineering at University of Texas El Paso and PI of the UT Systems LSAMP, and Dr. Cammi Valdez, Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Northeastern State University and previous past Director of the McNair Program at Wellesley College. Specific topics include 1) Finding and applying to jobs; 2) The hiring process; and 3) Strategies to be successful in the application and interview process. This is a 90m session.

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Intellectual Property and Patent Law

Subject matter experts from academia, industry, and clinical practice will share the basics of intellectual property and patent law, and how these differ in academic versus corporate environments. Discussion will include the importance of protecting your ideas and the resources available to innovators. Presenters include Ying Cao, PhD, JD, Counsel Intellectual Property @ Eaton Corporation, Jamaal Jordan, JD, Partner @ Stinson, and Hamid Piroozi, JD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Purdue School of Engineering and Technology @ IUPUI. Recorded April 23, 2021.

Eaton Internship Opportunity | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Racism in STEM Part 1: Foundation of Understanding Racism in STEM

Drs. Johniqua Williams and Dwayne White lead a discussion on establishing a foundation of understanding racism in STEM. The goal of this session is to inform participants of the psychological origins and impact of racism internally and externally within the field of STEM. This training will strengthen participants' collective analysis of power while providing useful tools and framework to shift power within groups, institutions and other formations seeking to advance racial justice in this time. Recorded May 26, 2021.

By the end of the workshop, participants will:
  • Build a clear understanding of key concepts such as racial equity and structural racism
  • Learn to talk about race constructively within their organizations and with their constituents
  • Gain tools and practices for counteracting racial bias in their work and practices
  • Identify opportunities and next steps for applying concepts and strategies to advance racial equity

Download PowerPoint | Download Professional Org List | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Racism in STEM Part 2: Racism within the College Experience

Rises in both racial tensions and racist incidents on campuses have heightened the need for college leaders to hold candid conversations about race and racism, which remain largely taboo topics. These days, many are met with resistance, anger, or disengagement when attempting to discuss race and racism. Drs. Johniqua Williams leads a discussion with a panel of STEM students, faculty and alumni will lead an open and responsive conversation around race. Panelists include Dr. Monica Frazier, Interim Chair and Professor of Cancer Biology, Columbus State University; Dr. Floyd Jackson, Chair and Professor of Chemistry, Columbus State University; Naoko Little-Jackson, Graduate Student, Howard University (WBHR BD); Ms. Cheyanne Koran, Undergraduate, University of Wisconsin Madison (Wisc-AMP scholar); Mr. Jay Pitts, Graduate Student, Columbus State University. Recorded June 16, 2021.

By the end of the workshop, participants will:
  • Build a clear understanding of key concepts such as racial equity and structural racism
  • Build a clear understanding of key concepts such as racial equity and structural racism
  • Gain tools and practices for counteracting racial bias in their work and practices

Reflection Questions | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Racism in STEM Part 3: Allyship in the Midst of Racism

Dr. Johniqua Williams leads a discussion on allyship and the practice of emphasizing social justice, inclusion, and human rights by members of an ingroup, to advance the interests of an oppressed or marginalized outgroup. The workshop will shed light on how allyship is part of the anti-oppression or anti-racist conversation, which puts into use social justice theories and ideals. Panelists include Destiny Lawler, Doctoral Student in Pharmacology, Howard University; AL-LAMP alumnus; and Shyrisse Ramos, Graduate Student at the University of Florida; Southwest Georgia STEM alumnus. Recorded June 30, 2021.

By the end of the workshop, participants will:
  • Recognize ways they can all contribute on an individual and organizational level to confront inequities within the workplace and correct unfair practices.
  • Learn about the different types of allyship, and ways to use them within their work and personal lives.
  • Identify strategies to confidently become allies while fostering working relationships that lead to more balanced outcomes for all employees.

Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Non-biomedical Post-bacc Program for STEM Majors

Watch the video to learn about post-baccalaureate programs (post-bac or post-bacc) for recent and soon-to-be STEM graduates. Representatives from different programs will share details about their specific opportunity, including application timeline, benefits, and pointers on how to be a competitive applicant. Recorded February 28, 2023.

Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Post-Baccalaureate Biomedical PREP Programs for STEM Majors

This webinar covers what a PREP post-baccalaureate program is, its benefits, and who is a good candidate for these programs. Hear from previous post-bacc program participants on why they chose to do a post-bacc and what it did for their career and STEM pathway. Representatives from different PREP programs share details about their programs and provide resources and information on how to apply. Recorded Feb 8, 2023.

Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

PhD? Why not me!

Dr. Cammi Valdez leads a discussion on graduate school. Topics include: factors to consider, different graduate school pathways, application process, and application components. Recorded June 23, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Applying to Graduate School

Dr. Cammi Valdez leads a discussion about the process of applying to and selecting a graduate schools. Panelists include current and past graduate students Maria Gonzalez from Virginia Tech, Ailon Haileyesus from Stryker, Rodrigue Mbog from University of Southern Illinois, and Kayla Titialii Torres from University of Kentucky. Recorded July 22, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | PhD Programs of Interest Template | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Funding Graduate School

Dr. Cammi Valdez leads a discussion on strategies and mechanisms to fund graduate school. Topics include funding package options, budgeting in grad school, fellowship opportunities, when to apply for funding, and where to find fellowships. Dr. Ana Chicas Mosier joins the conversation to share her experience applying to and holding several graduate fellowships and answers questions from prospective graduate students. Recorded July 29, 2020.

Graduate School Budget Scenario | Graduate School Budget Worksheet | Download PowerPoint | Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Is Chemistry Grad School for Me?

In this panel, current and past graduate students from UPenn share the ins-and-outs of continuing your chemistry education in grad school. Included in this discussion is the application process, what makes a strong application for a competitive program, and how to succeed and thrive in the graduate school environment.

Download PowerPoint | Download Resource List | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Graduate School Panel

Dr. Cammi Valdez facilitates a discussion with LSAMP alumni who are currently in graduate school. Topics include - How do I know if grad school is for me? How do I choose a graduate program/school? When should I start the grad school process and what does that entail? Panelists include - Laïlatou Bambara, PhD Student in Microbial Biology at Rutgers University New Brunswick, Garden State LSAMP; Lizeth Tamayo, PhD Candidate, The University of Chicago, IINSPIRE alumnus; and Aaron West, Graduate Student at the University of Kentucky, KY-WV LSAMP.

PowerPoint Slides | PhD Programs of Interest Template | Watch recorded session on YouTube

STEM Biomedical Pathways in Graduate School

Are you interested in both STEM research and medicine? Join the conversation with current graduate students in various Ph.D./MD or Ph.D. programs in biomedical sciences. Learn more about what these programs are, the typical application and degree completion timeline, as well as get insights on how to decide if these degree programs are right for you.

Watch recorded session on YouTube

Overview of the Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)

Thinking about graduate school? This session will provide an overview of the NSF GRFP which recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited US institutions. The five-year fellowship includes three years of financial support including an annual stipend of $34,000 and a cost of education allowance of $12,000 to the institution.

Watch recorded session on YouTube

Mentor vs Sponsor

Dr. Tasia Bryson leads a discussion on developing a mentor relationship for undergraduate STEM majors.

  • What is mentoring?
  • Why is mentoring important in undergraduate studies?
  • How to identify a mentor?
  • What are important characteristics for a mentor in STEM disciplines?
  • How to properly communicate with your mentor (preparing for meetings)?
  • What is the difference between a mentor and sponsor?

Session Material | Watch recorded session on YouTube

De-Stress & Motivate!

Discover strategies to cope with the added stress and challenges due to COVID-19 pandemic. Anique Ruiz and Brian Thomas share tips for staying motivated and healthy, along with tools for setting up a home-work space and working amidst home distractions. Recorded May 26, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | De-Stress & Motivate Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Time Management

Learn practical time management skills and techniques to be more productive and effective in meeting the demands of their academic, professional, and personal life. Recorded June 3, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Time Management Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Study Skills for Academic Success

Paul Ardayfio, Ph.D, Clinical Research Advisor, Neuroscience and Internal Medicine-GPS Medical, Eli Lilly and Co., leads a discussion on study skills and strategies for academic success. Participants learn the most effective research-based study strategies for academic success, as well as, the surprising study strategies that are not effective, but commonly used. Recorded September 16, 2020.

Self-Guided Slides | Study Checklist | Study Success Summary and Infographic | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Accountability: Who is on your board of directors?

Anique Ruiz and Brian Thomas share the concept of a personal board of directors (PBOD) as a strategy to help you reach your goals. Attendees learn how a PBOD can be a powerful part of any accountability system and what key characteristics students should look for in a potential board member. As part of this webinar, students participate in a reflection activity where they identify a few individuals who would earn a spot on their PBOD and why that individual was selected.

Download PowerPoint | Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Envisioning Success in STEM

This session includes an overview of what SMART goals are and how to convert a goal into a SMART goal. During a group exercise, students will have the opportunity to practice converting their goals into SMART goals. The session will end with a group discussion on potential pitfalls and strategies to avoid or address challenges. PRE-EXERCISE: Students are asked to think about their vision for 2021. Then watch the recording with 1-2 goals in mind that will help them achieve that vision. Recorded February 24, 2021.

Download PowerPoint | SMART Goals | Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Imposter Syndrome: Do I really belong?

Representatives from the National Association of LSAMP Alumni (NALA) discuss imposter syndrome in STEM, the different archetypes of imposters, and panelist share their personal story of dealing with feelings of imposter syndrome throughout their academic and professional career. Presenters: Mone't Alberts, Graduate Assistant, Boise State University and Pacific NW LSAMP Alumnus; Abby Cruz, Graduate Assistant, UMBC LSAMP Program and UMBC LSAMP Alumnus; and Paul Faronbi, Founder & CEO, IncrediPaul, and IINSPIRE LSAMP Alumnus. Recorded June 2, 2021.

Download PowerPoint | Resources | Reflection Questions | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Grit and Resilience

Wilson Darko, Power Systems Engineer @Eaton Corporation and RIT LSAMP Alumnus, leads a discussion on grit and resilience, including defining 'grit', personal story telling, and how to built grit and resilience in obtaining your goals. Recorded June 9, 2021.

Watch recorded session on YouTube

Work Life Balance

This is a "real talk" conversation among professionals in the STEM field who discuss the sacrifices they made, essential support systems to be successful in STEM, and provide strategies to have it all.

Watch recorded session on YouTube

Abstracts & Posters

Join the Bridge to the Doctorate Fellows from Wisc-AMP to learn about research abstracts and poster presentations. Alexius Lampkins and Darian James will demonstrate how to best showcase your research outcomes at a professional research conference. This session covers: Basic components and requirements of a research poster; What differentiates a good poster from a winning poster; Presenting to different audiences; Best practices in delivering the research presentation at a poster session. Recorded July 15, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Resources | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Internships: Find & Apply

Brian Thomas leads a discussion on how to find your ideal internship, discuss timelines and requirements, as well as provide strategies for developing a strong application. Panelists include representatives from Fermilab, Argonne National Laboratory and industry. In addition, Institute for Broadening Participation https://PathwaysToScience.org program representative demonstrates how to optimally use search tools to find internship opportunities. Recorded October 21, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Download Resource List | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Career Pathways in STEM!

Panelists Dr. Silvia Alvarez-Clare, Tree Ecologist from Morton Arboretum, Mr. Wilson Darko, Power Systems Engineer from Eaton Corporation, and Dr. Pamella Shaw, Assistant Dean of Admissions from The Ohio State University, share their stories navigating to where they are today. Topics include: what it takes to succeed in STEM, flexibility to change careers, making your own opportunities in STEM, and being a minority in a majority space. Recorded June 17, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Career Pathways in STEM!

Panelists Dr. Jessica Esquivel from Fermilab, Paul Faronbi from Nestle Purina, and Dr. Marquicia Pierce from TSRL, Inc., share their stories navigating to where they are today. Topics include: imposter syndrome challenges, taking risks when opportunities present themselves, and being a minority in a majority space. Recorded July 8, 2020.

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Careers in STEM: Insider Tips

LSAMP alumni share their journey to where they are today. Discussion will include insider tips on finding your path in STEM and what the alumni would tell their younger self. Panelist include Paul Faronbi, mechanical packaging engineer from Nestle Purina (IINSPIRE alumnus), Dr. Nathalie Fuentes, Post-doctoral student at National Institutes of Health (IINSPIRE alumnus), and Adrian Saenz, civil engineer for the US Army Corp of Engineers (OK-LSAMP alumnus).

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

Careers Pathways Panel 3 (July 2021)

Representatives from the National Association of LSAMP Alumni (NALA) lead a panel discussion where alumnus share their career pathway, factors that helped determine their career and degree/program choice, and other useful information for those who are on their journey. Panelists include Gwendolyn Fine, Senior Engineer at Johnson & Johnson (IINSPIRE alumnus); Symala Neeraja, Software Developer at Thoughtworks (IINSPIRE alumnus); German Saltar-Rivera, Doctoral Student in Aerospace Engineering at University of Illinois Urbana Champaign (PR-LSAMP alumnus). The session was moderated by Paul Faronbi, Packaging Engineer at Nestle Purina (IINSPIRE alumnus, NALA president, and IncrediPaul).

Download PowerPoint | Watch recorded session on YouTube

STEM Careers in Conservation Sciences

Brian Thomas moderates a discussion with two conservation scientists about their academic journey and experiences along the way. Panelists include Ms. Carlee Jackson from Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS) at New College of Florida and Dr. Gautam Surya, planning ecologist with Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). Recorded June 7, 2022.

Watch recorded session on YouTube


sponsors' logos