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The Science Technology Engineering Mathematics program at PCC enlisted guest speaker Dr. Priya Venkatesan on March 17 to motivate and pass on several tips to ensure student success. Her best advice: take advantage of technology and network. The government-funded STEM program aims to assist students in accomplishing their goal of transferring to a four-year university and ultimately, achieve a graduate’s degree. Participants of the program must be majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

According to Marilyn Johnson, computer technical support specialist of natural sciences and coordinator of STEM, Venkatesan, who works as an adjunct assistant professor of health sciences, has given speeches to members of STEM for four years and her motivational topics have varied.

“[Venkatesan]’s speeches are always different. The first year was about food and how students can eat healthy. The second year was about which books she recommended. Last year, she spoke about simplifying lives,” said Johnson.

This year, Venkatesan’s hour-long speech focused on making and maintaining connections with other people, particularly through the technology that the digital age has to offer.

“I feel the digital age has a lot to offer but I will not undermine the importance of the human being. Human beings are the core of society and technology helps you stay connected with each other,” said Venkatesan.

As students took notes and asked questions, Venkatesan ensured that her speech remained colorful and animated. Toward the end, she passionately declared that students “slow down in life, prioritize, invest in people, and never miss an opportunity to make a friend.”

Bridgette Spencer, biochemistry, found the speaker to be “inspirational.”

“I want to try some of the things [Venkatesan] said. I do not think they are impossible to do,” Spencer said. “It is all about perspective. One thing I want to start doing is see the positive in life.”

After the speech ended, Johnson announced that Venkatesan would be available to speak to students personally. STEM members appeared pleased with the advice they received.

“The lecture was pretty interesting. It made me feel like there are different avenues to get to places in life. Now I want to try to relate everything,” said Ryan Reddix, zoology.

Although Venkatesan teaches online courses full-time, she continues to find time to fulfill her personal goals.

“I helped set-up “E-Internships” for students who need to gain internship experience but cannot make time for them. I will also work on a blog to educate PCC students on nutrition,” said Venkatesan.

Venkatesan continues to embrace the technology that is available to students and faculty alike by suggesting that a Facebook group should be created for STEM members to share their resources.

However, she is also cautious of the dangers of technology. She advises students to “submit to technology but only to a certain level. Consciously seek balance.

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