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SXU Holds Explore STEM Alumni Networking Event

Date:04/17/2020

Saint Xavier University's EXPLORE STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) program recently hosted new and former students at the STEM Alumni Networking Event. Alumni from biology, chemistry, computer science and math shared their tips and experiences with current students.

 Attendees ranged from current medical school students or Ph.D. candidates to professionals working in their chosen fields, and they all had one thing in common—certainty of the impact that their SXU education had on their success. Alumni who were not able to join in person sent passages and pictures about their current lives, and they offered advice about the resources at SXU that helped them to reach their goals. Current students got the opportunity to network and engage in scholarly conversation with alumni, learning about their lives and achievements post-SXU.

Nicole Palumbo '08, DVM, received her bachelor's degree in biology pre-health at SXU and found that her coursework and experience were of significant help when she began to study small animal medicine. "The first two years of classes were made easier due to the intense biology and chemistry classes taken at SXU," said Palumbo. Now a veterinarian, Palumbo credits SXU as a pathway to success.

One of the objectives of the EXPLORE STEM program is to help bridge the gap between graduation and career or graduate school. Alumni events offer significant resources to help current students connect with former students who have gone through the process. Alumni provide support and encouragement, and their stories are truly inspirational to current students. 

Ben Noffke '12, Ph.D., received his bachelor's degree in chemistry at SXU and went on to study the  fundamental processes of carbon materials at Argonne National Lab before starting work with Epic, a healthcare software company. When asked what advice he has for current students, Noffke said, "Learn skills that compliment your scientific studies so you stand out in any career. And take more classes on statistics!"

Darryl Brown '13, M.D., earned his bachelor's degree in biochemistry at SXU and is now an anesthesiologist who plans to further specialize in pain management and ultimately practice interventional pain medicine and anesthesiology. "At Saint Xavier, I was involved in research that helped me develop critical thinking and analytical skills that I use today as a physician. When I began my undergraduate career, I had no idea how helpful my experience would be for medical school, residency and my career. The skills you gain at SXU are invaluable, and I am extremely thankful for the many opportunities and experiences from the University," said Brown. 

SXU is proud of our alumni and looks forward to watching them continue to learn, grow, succeed and serve as inspiration to our community.