“Determination beats difficulty.” – Laura Bialek, Alumni Presenter

At Clarkstown High School North, students and alumni joined together during the “Day of Thanks” to share knowledge, discuss scientific topics, and empower one another. Alumni came from all fields, like biophysics, business, mathematics, computer science, and engineering. Without North’s STEM resources, amazing faculty members, and students with a strong drive, this event would not have been possible. 

Check out this interview conducted by Gianna Maltbie, Around-the-Horn Editor and STEM Alumni Event Attendee, and Laura Bialek, an Alumni Presenter   currently at the University of Pennsylvania studying Mathematics & Health and Societies with a concentration in Healthcare Markets & Finance. 

Gianna: What was your experience speaking as a STEM Alumni?

Laura: When I was a senior at North, I enjoyed listening to the STEM alumni share their post-high school experiences. I learned a lot and was very inspired. I felt a lot of pride when I spoke alongside these alumni this year. Our community has accomplished so much! It was also great to see old friends and teachers.  

Gianna: What would you recommend to a North student interested in pursuing a STEM career?

Laura: STEM has the reputation of being difficult and rigorous.  If you have the urge to pursue a career in STEM, do not let this intimidate you. Your passion will drive you to work your hardest. Determination defeats difficulty.  

Gianna: What class do you recommend most people take to prepare them for a STEM career?

Laura: If possible, I definitely recommend taking calculus in high school.  Every STEM major has to have at least a basic background in calculus. My calculus background from high school put me in a great place for my first semester of college.  

Science is all around us, and it is so great to acknowledge and recognize North’s leaders in STEM. It is also wonderful that North has science and mathematics teachers who are so dedicated to their students and that North provides different courses for students with different interests.