ReBUILDetroit scholars from University of Detroit Mercy attending the STEM Research and Career Symposium at Emory University reflect on their experiences and preparation for the future.
Faculty advisors and students from diverse backgrounds shared their research presentations while having time for networking, mentoring, and recruitment earlier this month.
ReBUILDetroit scholars attending STEM Research and Career Symposium. From left to right: Vanessa Lee, Jamillah Douthet, Tamia Waller, Sarah Buhay, Relicious Eboh and in the background Nema Kebbeh.
The symposium provided an opportunity for scholars to fine tune their presentation skills and learn about transitioning to graduate school.
For Relicious Eboh, this was her first presentation outside of Michigan. “I was very nervous,” said Eboh. “Once the conference started, I realized that everyone in attendance was there for the same reason as I was to learn more about higher education beyond undergrad. The conference really made me solidify that I am on the right path to a successful future.”
The sessions focused on graduate school admissions, requirements and how to select a mentor.
“I gained priceless information on how to apply, where to apply and some inside tips,” said Jamillah Douthet. “I made a lot of connections for graduate school.”
Second-year scholar, Sarah Buhay, is confident that she is on the right career path. “The conference allowed me to gain more knowledge on future opportunities that I now consider pursuing, in particular MD/Ph.D. programs, through meeting faculty at information events and talking with current students in those positions.”
“Having the ability to conduct research so early in my career really puts me and my peers a step ahead in knowing what we want to accomplish in the future,” said Eboh. “As a third-year student in the program, I now know that I want to eventually obtain an MD/Ph.D. and one day be able to combat health disparities around the world.”
This sentiment is shared with fellow scholars. “I am extremely fortunate to be a ReBUILDetroit scholar. I know that I would not be this successful as an undergrad, if not for this opportunity,” said Douthet.
As part of the ReBUILDetroit experience, scholars are encouraged to attend, present and network at regional and national research conferences.