Highlights from February 11
On February 11, we launched our 30th anniversary celebrations and marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a #MyJourneyInSTEM campaign. This included social media, a new video, and a public panel of experts from the fields of science, technology, trades, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
First, a BIG Thank You to everyone who participated and shared your journeys in STEM. We were moved and amazed by all of your stories and we know they have inspired many others who are on their own STEM journeys. Engagement spiked to more than 10,000 across CAGIS’ social media platforms and our video was viewed 12,000 times. We were delighted that it prompted so many to share their own happy CAGIS memories from the past 30 years.
Our evening panel featured eight STEM experts, ages 8 to 80, and was moderated by CAGIS’ Larissa Vingilis-Jaremko. The panelists reflected on their own journeys, role models, and challenges. The live event was attended by families on 85 screens across the country. The formal discussion was followed by lively Q&A with questions submitted from the audience in advance and in real time—more questions than we had time to answer!
Their thoughtful and frank discussion wrapped up with words of advice for aspiring young STEM experts, including:
“Just do it! You’re not going to know what you do or do not like until you try.”
“Reach out. Take a chance and talk to different people.”
“Do what you love.”
“Keep your eyes on the prize and cut out the noise (the naysayers)”
“Take every opportunity that’s presented to you and don’t be afraid of failure.”
“Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Stepping outside your comfort zone is where you learn the most…Jump in and do it!”
“You can always start from where you are. Believe in yourself.”
“Find the people who can support and elevate you. Organizations like CAGIS!”
“Keep trying. Never give up, and don’t let anybody say that you can’t do it.”
