Austin’s vision for his action plan took shape at the training. “I continue to grow as a leader and am expanding my current action plan of creating and publishing podcasts about a variety of STEM topics. To achieve this expansion, I will request recommendations for topics from students and better advertise the podcasts to increase viewership and engagement. With this plan and support from others, I know I can make an even bigger impact in the community.”
By learning about communication styles, Austin discovered how he can be more effective. “After attending the training, I have a better understanding of different communication styles and approaches to solving problems. What I learned about my style includes the fact that I think deeper than what is expected; I get bogged down in too much intellectual thought in the moment. By looking at the bigger picture, making correlations between the topic and other instances, and bringing these thoughts to the table, I can increase engagement, which will lead to better discussions and ideas.”
As a Chief Science Officer, Austin–and all students–develop new skills and personal awareness to empower them in life. He said, “The CSO program has made an impact on me personally by providing a leadership role that I feel proud about and use to lead others in discussions and actions. I feel ambitious, and I am looking forward to impacting my community via my action plan this year!”
Throughout the year, Chief Science Officers will continue to receive training to build their own skill sets. They will team up with other students for greater collective impact. And they will become confident, expectant youth who are on a mission to improve STEM education in their communities while making the world a better place.