Tag: Student Success

By:  Beth Anne Johnson

As we embark on the April recap of PEER WISE Connections, prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary journey of Melissa DeSantiago, a shining star within our community. Melissa’s story is noteworthy, filled with determination, passion, and a commitment to making a difference.

Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE, beautifully encapsulates Melissa’s impact, describing her as nothing short of inspiring. Melissa’s multifaceted trajectory from undergraduate to Ph.D. candidate is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for making a difference.

“Melissa is the epitome of inspiration,” Serita Acker remarks. “Her ability to seamlessly transition from industry to academia while staying true to her roots in PEER WISE is truly remarkable. She embodies the spirit of our organization and serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring scholars everywhere.”

Indeed, Melissa’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of friendship and mentorship. Beth Anne, PEER WISE Community Engagement Coordinator and close friend of Melissa sheds light on their profound bond, emphasizing its pivotal role in her personal and professional success.

“Melissa’s friendship has been the cornerstone of my journey,” Beth Anne reflects. “From our days as undergraduates to navigating the challenges of adulthood, her unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental. I owe much of my success to her, and it’s through her that I discovered the invaluable opportunities PEER WISE offers, first as an undergraduate myself and now as a working professional. I am so thankful our students had the opportunity to connect with her.”

Melissa’s trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. As a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Environmental Health and Engineering at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, her research in exposure science and environmental epidemiology is paving the way for meaningful change. Collaborating with the ongoing Maule Cohort (MAUCO) study in Chile, Melissa’s innovative approach to assessing environmental and occupational exposures to agrochemical mixtures is poised to impact vulnerable working communities significantly.

Melissa shares her wisdom with students, advising them, “Follow your instincts and values with conviction. You will never be happy if you compromise yourself or your values. You know what work still needs to be done, so go out there and do it because the world needs you.”

PEER WISE Connections is a professional development series hosted by the PEER WISE department that introduces current students to alumni and industry professionals. Serita shares, “Melissa is the perfect speaker to end the 2023 to 2024 academic year with because she has a heart of gold. May all PEER WISE students see her heart and, in her likeness, do a world of good.”

By: Beth Anne Johnson

Setting the Stage

The stage was set, the energy palpable, and Freeman Hall transformed into a hub of inspiration and celebration for an unforgettable Women’s History Month event. On a balmy March evening, CECAS students gathered to witness the brilliance of three remarkable WISE alumni: Sarah Baum, Dajonia Jackson, and Kasey Kilgore. From medical school to consulting and industry, their journeys illuminated the path for future generations of aspiring women in STEM.

Experience the Stories

Each panelist brought a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to the table, offering insights that resonated deeply with the audience. Reflecting on her undergraduate experience and the role of PEER WISE, Sarah Baum shared, “PEER WISE was more than just a program; it was a community of support and empowerment. I made lifelong connections and found mentors who guided me through challenges and triumphs.”

Dajonia Jackson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship during the formative years of one’s academic journey. “As women in STEM, we often face unique obstacles, but having a support system like PEER WISE made all the difference. It’s where I built the foundation of building myself back up and discovered the power of collaboration.”

Lessons Learned and Words of Wisdom

Kasey Kilgore offered a candid perspective when asked what they wished they had done more or less of during their undergraduate years. “I wish I had taken more risks and embraced failure as part of the learning process. It’s easy to get caught up in perfectionism, but true growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones, so my advice is to go explore. Find and discover your passions.”

As the conversation delved into the impact of mentorship on professional development, Sarah Baum shared a valuable insight. “My mentorship role not only shaped my approach to leadership but also taught me the importance of intentional listening. As future leaders, it’s our responsibility to uplift and empower the next generation, and one of the best ways to do that is thoughtfully listening to others.”

Advice for Future Trailblazers

In closing, the panelists offered encouragement and advice to current undergraduate students embarking on their own STEM journeys. Dajonia Jackson emphasized the power of resilience, stating, “Don’t let setbacks define you. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient.”

Kasey Kilgore urged students to embrace their unique strengths and passions. “Your journey may not look like anyone else’s, and that’s okay. Embrace your authenticity and let your passion guide you.”

Sarah Baum echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-belief. “Believe in yourself and your abilities. You can achieve greatness, and the world needs your unique perspective and contributions.”

Celebrating Women Making Waves

“Sarah, Dajonia and Kasey are tremendous examples of talent in our PEER WISE family. From mentees to mentors, these women are phenomenal leaders. It is a tremendous privilege to see them thriving in their careers,” shares Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE.

The PEER WISE Connections March event was more than just a celebration of Women’s History Month; it was a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and resilience. As we reflect on the wisdom shared by Sarah Baum, Dajonia Jackson, and Kasey Kilgore, let us remember their words as we forge our paths in STEM. Together, we can break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and inspire the next generation of trailblazing women in STEM.

By: Beth Anne Johnson

In February, PEER WISE hosted a motivating event featuring the esteemed Dr. Lauren Garner. As the Executive Director of PEER WISE, Serita Acker, succinctly shared, “If I had one word to summarize the words of wisdom Lauren gave PEER & WISE, it would be tenacity.” Garner’s journey exemplifies the power of determination and its profound impact on both personal and professional success.

Garner’s professional journey is noteworthy and a tremendous example of how to honor and achieve your dreams. A board-certified pediatric pharmacy specialist at the University of North Carolina Medical Center, she has dedicated her career to serving the pediatric hematology oncology community. Raised in rural South Carolina, Garner’s roots at Clemson University laid the foundation for her passion for pediatric care. She pursued her doctorate of pharmacy at the Medical University of South Carolina, where her dedication to pediatric medicine flourished.

Throughout her career, Garner has embraced the importance of resilience and adaptability. Lisa Jackson, PEER Associate Director, reflected on Garner’s insightful advice: “I love how Lauren reminded students to not stop at ‘no’ and to think of ‘no’ as more so a ‘not now’ or to dive deeper and ask more questions.” Garner’s emphasis on perseverance resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the significance of navigating setbacks with determination and grace.

During the event, Garner emphasized that our journeys are inherently non-linear, punctuated by obstacles and challenges. However, she underscored the importance of maintaining composure and unwavering determination. As she aptly stated, “Persistency and consistency are key.” Garner’s commitment to her patients and her pursuit of excellence serve as an inspiration for all aspiring healthcare professionals, especially our young members of the Clemson Family.

Outside of work, Garner enjoys running and spending quality time with her beloved dog, Anson. Her holistic approach to life serves as a reminder that success is not solely defined by professional accolades but by the joy found in everyday moments. This is a lesson we want all students at PEER and WISE to know – seek life with both determination and joy.

Dr. Lauren Garner’s commitment to excellence and ability to overcome challenges demonstrates the importance of perseverance. We can find inspiration in Dr. Garner’s approach as we face our own obstacles with determination. By working together, we can accomplish remarkable feats and leave a meaningful imprint on our world.

By:  Beth Anne Johnson

The PEER WISE community gathered for an exclusive Q&A session with the phenomenal Jacovia Cherry on a crisp January evening. As the clock struck at 5:00 on Tuesday, January 30th, our screens illuminated, ready to embark on a journey with a distinguished alumna who seamlessly blended her passion for engineering, coaching, and entrepreneurship. “Jacovia is an amazing example for students to see the power of networking and community,” shares Serita Acker, “she goes after the exact life she desires. She has many passions, and she pursues them all. Many students let the fear of failure stop them from pursuing their desired life, but not our Jacovia Cherry.”

Jacovia Cherry: A Multi-Faceted Success Story

A Computer and Electrical Engineering graduate turned Google professional, Middle School Basketball Coach, and small business owner, Cherry embodies the essence of limitless possibilities for PEER WISE students. Her story, punctuated by resilience and achievement, unfolded before us as she shared her insights and experiences.

The Journey Unveiled

Cherry commenced the session by reminding us that every working professional, regardless of current status, once navigated the labyrinth of their initial major’s classes. Her narrative resonated with students and alumni, creating a relatable bridge between past and present Clemson experiences.
“I actually had to take time off from my academics at Clemson,” says Cherry, “During this time, I worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. It was a hard and true wake-up call to say, education is necessary for the life I want for myself.”

Secrets of Perseverance

A beacon of inspiration, Cherry delved into the secrets of perseverance that propelled her toward success. From conquering academic challenges to thriving in a dynamic professional landscape, she emphasized the significance of resilience and commitment to one’s goals. “Ask for help,” says Cherry, “Ask for help and show up. When you ask for community. Your community responds.” Her journey echoed the sentiment that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones to growth.

Importance of Community

One of the event’s highlights was Cherry’s emphasis on the community’s pivotal role in her personal and professional growth. She passionately shared how the support and resources provided by PEER & WISE had been instrumental in making her Clemson Experience extraordinary. Her words resonated with the audience, underscoring a supportive community’s profound impact on an individual’s journey.
“Jacovia Cherry was and remains a fantastic PEER & WISE mentor,” exclaims Lisa Jackson, PEER Associate Director, “We want our students to be authentic and intentional leaders, and Jacovia is the very embodiment of this practice.”

Gleaning Insights for Extraordinary Experiences

As Cherry shared her pearls of wisdom, attendees had the opportunity to glean insights into making their own Clemson experiences extraordinary. Whether navigating academic challenges, transitioning into the professional world, or balancing multiple passions, Cherry’s journey was a roadmap for unlocking one’s full potential. The takeaway? Our journeys are not always linear; they have setbacks, but how we react, pivot, and arrive sets our pathway to success forward.

Reflecting on the Event

The January PEER WISE Connections event with Jacovia Cherry was a resounding success. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of Cherry’s journey and renewed motivation and inspiration to conquer their academic and professional pursuits.

Closing Thoughts:

Jacovia Cherry’s Q&A session highlighted the importance of community, perseverance, and embracing individual paths. The event provided valuable insights that we can apply as we seek wisdom and inspiration in our own journeys.

Missed the event? Stay tuned for more enriching sessions and opportunities with PEER WISE Connections. PEER WISE Connections is a professional development series hosted by the PEER & WISE department that introduces current students to alumni and industry professionals. It is open to all students.

Unlock Your Potential with PEER & WISE – Where Wisdom Meets Inspiration! 

By:  Serita Acker, PEER WISE Executive Director

Hey, Clemson Tigers! Serita Acker here, and I’m excited to share some wisdom on enhancing your spring performance. As we transition into a new season, it’s the perfect time to take a step back, reassess, and set the stage for success. Here are five steps to elevate your spring performance:

Step 1: Pause, Reflect, and Ask Yourself: “What can I do better?”
Spring is a time of renewal; the first step to enhance your performance is to hit the pause button. Take a moment to reflect on your recent experiences, challenges, and successes. Ask yourself, “What can I do better?” This simple yet powerful question sets the foundation for growth and improvement.

Step 2: Create an Action Plan
Once you’ve identified areas for improvement, it’s time to turn your reflections into action. Craft a detailed action plan outlining specific steps to address your identified areas of growth. Break it down into manageable tasks, set realistic deadlines, and create a roadmap to guide your journey towards improvement.

Step 3: Build Intention into Performance
Intentionality is the key to success. Infuse purpose into your actions and decisions. Define your goals clearly, and align every step of your action plan with those objectives. When your efforts are guided by intention, you’ll find greater focus and purpose in your daily tasks, leading to more meaningful and impactful results.

Step 4: Check-In, Create Checks and Balances
Regular check-ins are crucial to ensure you’re staying on track with your action plan. Establish checks and balances to measure progress and performance. Set milestones, evaluate your achievements, and be open to adjusting your strategy if needed. Accountability is a powerful motivator, and consistent check-ins keep you accountable for your goals.

Step 5: Rest – Nurture Your Brain with Quality Sleep and Nutrition
Last but certainly not least, prioritize rest. Your brain is the powerhouse behind your performance, and it deserves proper care. Ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep, nourish your body with nutritious foods, and create a holistic approach to well-being. Remember, your brain consumes the most calories in your body, so give it the rest it deserves to recharge and perform at its best.

As we dive into spring, let’s embrace these five steps to enhance our performance. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or staff, these principles apply universally. Here’s to a season of growth, success, and achieving your fullest potential! Go Tigers!

#SpringPerformance #ClemsonSuccess #SeritaSpeaks