2018 Girls STEM Day at Harding University

This week I was given the opportunity, through team Breakaway, to participate in Harding University’s Girls STEM Day. My FRC team has sent members to the event for years, and I was able to go myself as a freshman as this is my first year on the team. There were many inspiring speakers and volunteers that were so helpful and knowledgeable. We were offered two breakout classes, which were all taught by experts who had life experience and training in STEM fields. The classes offered varied. There were classes involving chemistry, programming, medicine, life skills, and many other specialties. We also listened to a presentation from two representatives from L'Oreal. They presented to us how STEM expertise can be used in different careers that are not often associated with STEM, such as cosmetics. The L'Oreal representatives also spoke on how engineers help with reducing “carbon footprints,” reducing waste, and improving products.

The Master of Ceremonies was an alumna of team Breakaway, Alina Westbrook, who is majoring in Bible and Ministry and Math. It was an inspiration to see a member of the Breakaway family becoming a leader in the world of STEM. Harding University did an amazing job by providing accomplished women to teach girls the importance of the STEM fields. I personally gained a deeper understanding and confidence in my passion to pursue a career in the healthcare profession.