Scroll through and pick one of the 10 episodes from Season 4 of the Talking Technicians Podcast. There’s so much to learn from these technicians as Dr. Peter Kazarinoff talks through their life experiences and journey. You can also jump to the full YouTube Playlist or to the MNT-EC Talking Technicians Podcast page.
Full List as only links, no YouTube image, but takes you to the same place. 🙂
Antar Tichavakunda, LinkedIn Profile
Location: California, United States
In this month’s “Spotlight,” we focus on Dr. Antar Tichavakunda, a scholar whose work at the intersection of race and higher education has been vital in advancing the Micro Nano Technology Education Center (MNT-EC) mission. As an Assistant Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Antar brings a deep commitment to educational equity, particularly in supporting Black students in STEM fields.
Antar came into MNT-EC at the start of the MNT-CURN program in 2021. I have had the pleasure of working with him for the past three years. One of the things that stands out to me about Antar is that he really listens to understand. This is so important in today’s world, especially when you are dealing with students. He really makes you feel like what you have to say is important (and it is!). I really value this quality in the people I work with.
EDITOR’S NOTE: MNT-CURN “v2” is found under a new program, temporarily hosted here: AT³, the 8-month Advanced Technology Technician Training program.
Can you share your background and the pioneering work you’ve done in your field?
“I started off as an English teacher in DC and then pursued my doctoral degree at the University of Southern California for education. Much of my work looks at the intersection of race and higher education. I hesitate to call anything I’ve done pioneering, but I am proud to have contributed to research on Black students’ experiences in higher education!”
“My book, Black Campus Life (SUNY Press page with print and digital options), is a bit novel in that it might be the first ethnography about engineering students and one of the few ethnographies about college students out there. I got to hang out with Black engineering students for a year and wrote about it. It was one of my most memorable research experiences.”
An in-depth ethnography of Black engineering students at a historically White institution, Black Campus Life examines the intersection of two crises, up close: the limited number of college graduates in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, and the state of race relations in higher education…. Most fundamentally, Black Campus Life argues that Black collegians are more than the racism they endure. By studying and appreciating the everyday richness and complexity of their experiences, we all—faculty, administrators, parents, policymakers, and the broader public—might learn how to better support them. —SUNY Press
NOTE: Book cover is linked to the Open Access download page.
Can you describe the key initiatives or projects you’ve led at MNT-EC?
“I’ve had the privilege of holding focus groups with students in MNT-CURN to get a more qualitative understanding about their experiences. I’ve also worked with Dr. Jalil Bishop (who is also a part of the MNT-EC team and you can read about his work here) to think of different ways MNT-EC can bolster strategic partnerships with other groups doing similar work.”
Antar’s work in leading focus groups has been instrumental in understanding how students navigate their identities within the context of STEM education. These insights are crucial for MNT-EC’s ongoing efforts to enhance student experiences. Additionally, his collaborative efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships have expanded MNT-EC’s reach, particularly in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
What are some of the challenges and successes you’ve experienced in promoting DEI within MNT-EC, and how have these shaped the center’s overall mission and impact?
“One of the biggest successes is that pretty much across the board, students feel included. They tell us that they can tell MNT-CURN values diversity, and they see the intentionality behind having a diverse representation of presenters. This is a big win.”
“The biggest challenge is related to this success. Students feel included and have positive experiences, but they don’t necessarily report having discussions about identity outside of their STEM identities. Obviously, this program is geared towards success in micro-nanotechnology and ensuring students get those competencies and awareness about the field. I wonder how, if at all, MNT-CURN can create spaces to meaningfully reflect on their identities (race, gender, sexuality, etc.) in relation to their STEM identity and see their identities as an asset to bring to their work and not something to mute.”
From my perspective as Center Manager, Antar’s reflections on the challenges and successes of promoting DEI within MNT-EC highlight his commitment to ensuring that all students feel included and valued. His insights into how the center can further engage students in discussions about their identities beyond their STEM roles are vital to MNT-EC’s mission of fostering a diverse and thriving community.
What do you love best about your work?
“Honestly, I really just enjoy talking with and learning from students and their experiences. The knowledge they bring from their lives can really shape educational spaces for the better.”
Dr. Antar Tichavakunda’s dedication to learning from and supporting students is evident in every aspect of his work. Through his research, teaching, and contributions to MNT-EC, he is helping to create more inclusive and supportive educational environments.
For more insights into Antar’s work, you can explore his book Black Campus Life, available in both print and open access versions in the links above, or visit his LinkedIn profile at the top of the page.
Want to talk more about Nano? Get in touch with me. Are you in industry and want to get involved, please get in touch at my email below.
Thanks,
Billie
UPDATE: You can also follow along on our new Facebook page (give it a like, if that’s your thing) and on our MNT-EC LinkedIn page.
At MNT-EC, we are working hard to stay at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in fields as diverse as microelectronics (think semiconductors — that chip in your smartphone), nanobiotechnology, and nanophotonics, to name a few. Yet, as the demand for skilled technicians in these areas continues to grow, there is an urgent need to equip students with the hands-on experience and industry connections that will prepare them for these high-demand roles.
To meet this opportunity, we are launching the Advanced Technology Technician Training “AT3” program to create a robust pipeline for students to transition from the classroom to the workforce, all while addressing the critical workforce shortages the industry faces today and in the near-future.
More to come, but for now, here is the program flyer you can view or download (to hopefully, hint hint, share with your students and anyone on campus or in your networks).
Billie Copley, LinkedIn Profile
Location: Arkansas, United States
Hostile Takeover: You have probably heard the term, which refers to when one business takes over another by less-than-honorable means, as most would understand.
* * *
This is a “Friendly Takeover” of MNT-EC Center Manager Billie Copley’s usual Notes column, by me, the site editor. 😂 For the past few months, Billie has written about others. The leadership team here felt it was a good time to lift up someone reluctant to be in the spotlight, pun intended. You can read the other MNT-EC “Partner Spotlights” I have linked below.
As one of the two main leaders with daily responsibility for this national center, alongside Center Director Dr. Jared Ashcroft, Billie often talks about how to reach people, lift up others associated with this grant, and highlight its work to serve students, families, educators, and the industry surrounding both.
“Billie Copley is the heart and soul of MNT-EC. She is responsible for keeping MNT-EC running and organizing the different focus group teams. She is a joy to work with and provides a much needed perspective on grant activities.”
Dr. Jared Ashcroft, MNT-EC Center Director
A bit of background may help you understand her service mindset: She was recently promoted to full mentor status at Mentor-Connect, exemplifying dedication and passion for nanoscience and education. Her journey to a leading mentor in Mentor-Connect showcases her commitment to fostering growth and excellence within the ATE community, specifically to educators applying for their grant funding. She also does this directly within the MNT-EC community along with Mel Cossette, Greg Kepner, and Esperanza Zenon. To learn more, head over to the MNT-EC Mentoring page.
Billie’s career in nanoscience began at Nano-Link, where she served as the Nanoscience Lab Manager at Dakota County Technical College. Under the guidance of leaders like Deb Newberry, Billie thrived in the collaborative and innovative environment that defines the ATE community. Her role at Nano-Link partly shaped her professional ethos, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, hands-on learning, and community engagement.
During her tenure at Nano-Link, Billie managed complex projects and fostered a supportive learning environment for students. Her dedication and innovative approach to education earned her recognition and opened new growth opportunities. In 2011, Billie attended her first HI-TEC meeting, experiencing the collaborative spirit of the ATE network firsthand. In that same year, she attended ATE-PI as a student and earned a student of excellence award for her work.
“Billie Copley is the glue that holds MNT-EC together. Billie works hard to keep the team on task while preparing the annual report and balancing duties with other working group teams. She always shows her gratitude and respect for other team members.”
Greg Kepner, Co-PI MNT-EC; PI of NavigATE
When asked about her reasons for becoming a mentor, she expressed that it has always been part of her life and mindset. “I love learning from my mentors and using that knowledge daily. So, I like to give that back to other people. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a mentor, so I feel privileged to help others achieve their goals, whether writing a grant proposal, writing a paper for J ATE, or helping students navigate life. I mentor in my personal life as well. I am mentoring a young man who wants to earn his Project Management degree and take the PMP certification exam. It’s amazing to watch a person’s confidence grow under your direction. It is very fulfilling.”
Note: The Mentor-Connect initiative is led by some of the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education (NSF ATE) program’s most experienced and successful Principal Investigators (PIs) and mentors. They recently elevated Billie to a Full Mentor, entrusting her with projects and participants across the program.
Transitioning to her current role as Center Manager at MNT-EC, Billie brought a wealth of experience and a passion for advancing nanoscience education. Her leadership at MNT-EC has been marked by strategic project management, and her commitment to mentoring has already been mentioned. Her professional development from lab manager at Nano-Link to a key figure at MNT-EC highlights her dedication to continuous learning and her ability to adapt and thrive in dynamic and sometimes challenging environments. Billie views the ATE as more than a community; to her, it’s a vibrant support system that has been instrumental in her development.
Since her introduction to the community in 2010, Billie has benefited from its collaborative spirit and now actively contributes to helping others navigate their educational and professional paths, particularly in crafting successful grant proposals. She advises realism in project planning and understanding the constraints of time and resources to make a meaningful impact. Reflecting on her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of detail and clarity in navigating technicalities successfully.
“Billie is a tremendous asset to MNT-EC. I’ve had the fortune to work with her on outreach-related activities, and Billie has been a consistent source of insight and sensibility. Her levels of organization and dedication set a high bar for all of us to aspire to.”
— Tiffany Kimoto | Executive Director | The Kavli Nanoscience Institute, Caltech
Billie’s life is filled with creativity and adventure outside her professional roles. From gardening and woodworking to rock hunting and crystal mining, she embraces activities that involve nature and using her hands. An avid motorcyclist, Billie is rekindling her passion for riding, embracing the freedom it offers. These personal interests not only add depth to her character but also provide a unique perspective to her professional endeavors, making her a relatable figure in the ATE community.
As Billie continues her role at MNT-EC, Mentor-Connect, and within her local community, she will shape the future of many aspiring professionals and enrich the ATE community. Her story is one of continuous learning, teaching, and giving back—a true testament to the power of community and mentorship.
Reach out to Billie and the entire MNT-EC Leadership team here.
Below are the other three Spotlights mentioned above.
Josh works as a technician at Analog Devices, where he supports the development and testing of innovative electronic components. He talks about the collaborative nature of his role, the technical problem-solving involved, and how his work directly contributes to advancements in consumer and industrial electronics. Josh emphasizes the importance of precision and creativity in meeting the demands of the industry.
In this episode of Talking Technicians, you’ll meet Josh, a technician at Analog Devices in San Jose, California. Hear about Josh’s background, his experience working at Analog Devices, and the opportunities for growth and benefits in the industry. Josh shares his journey from starting in an automotive shop to working in the microelectronics industry, and how his education at a community college prepared him for his career. Josh emphasizes the importance of hands-on skills and communication in the field of electronics. The episode concludes with Josh’s advice for students and those looking to transition into a career as a technician.
The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.
Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.
Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.
Links from the show:
Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/
Analog Devices: https://www.analog.com/en/index.html
This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/15470723-s04-e10-josh-is-a-technician-at-analog-devices
If you prefer to listen via YouTube:
Vivian (Ngoc) Vu is a dedicated student pursuing the Photonics Certificate Program at Stonehill College. Despite challenges, Vivian’s hard work has enhanced her academic knowledge, opening doors to a career in high-tech manufacturing and highlighting the power of education.
I’m from Vietnam and came to the U.S. nine years ago. I used to work at a taxi company in Vietnam and now work at my aunt’s nail salon. I have an associate’s degree in accounting, and I’m currently enrolled in the Photonics Certificate Program at Stonehill College. When I finish this program in August, I will work at a high-tech job. I like to swim.
I saw an advertisement on Facebook about the Photonics Certificate Program at Stonehill College. It said that women, even 40 years old, could train to be technicians in this program and learn advanced manufacturing optics and photonics. It said that math and science backgrounds were not required and that we could become technicians to get a good job. It also noted that there was little homework, which I particularly liked. At the nail salon, there’s flexible time. It’s been rewarding to come to the Photonics Certificate Program at night.
I want to use what I’m learning in the Photonics Certificate Program and get a job right away. I want to learn more on the job and not go to college.
I have more knowledge and made friends. I know more about the U.S. because it’s very different from Vietnam. In Vietnam, you listen to the professor’s lecture. In the U.S., you ask the professor questions and read more about the topic.
Last month, it was most rewarding to attend and present at the TechConnect World Innovation conference in Washington, DC. It was good to talk with companies and learn what they do.
I liked the trips to tour companies. We visited AccuRounds, EMI, and IQE and saw equipment. We understood the work with machines and safety, entered a clean room, and put on personal protective equipment.
The Director of the Photonics Certificate Program, Cheryl Schnitzer, has helped me with many things, like finding funding, helping with my resume, and giving me more confidence to know that I can present at a conference and do this work. My professors have taught me about electronics, optics, lasers, photonics, and tools and materials for advanced manufacturing. Professor Peter Rice taught about The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People during work and interviews, which have been very helpful in thinking and solving problems.
The English language is my biggest challenge! I work hard to listen and learn more words. When I read a book, I need to read it two or three times to understand it. Google Translate is only about 70% able to give the correct meaning. I still write in Vietnamese and then translate it into English.
If I ask questions, people will repeat them and try to help me overcome my language barrier, but I mostly learn English by myself.
I’m very busy at work in the nail salon and classes in the certificate program. However, I joined a Facebook group about soccer and swimming at The Y for exercise in the early morning.
This was the first time I joined a group. Now I read books and magazines more to learn.
I have become more connected with companies and people in this field. I am also part of Stonehill College’s LinkedIn Photonics group.
The equipment at Stonehill is excellent. Learn it and be confident using it. If you have a question, ask, and don’t be shy.
Talk with the professor and the students. Read about what you’re learning in class and watch YouTube videos to learn even more.
The program is outstanding, and I learned a lot about measurements and repairs. If something doesn’t work, I have the confidence and skills to make it work.
This program means an exciting high-tech job with benefits and opportunities to grow! I will complete the coursework in the certificate program on August 14th. I am applying now for jobs. I hope to work at 3DEO as a technician building airborne LiDAR mapping systems.
As Center Director, I am always interested to talk to students, faculty, staff, and industry professionals. If you would like to learn more about MNT-EC or Nanotechnology or ways that community colleges are making a difference, please contact me directly here.
If you are interested in learning more about the Photonics & Optical Engineering Certificate Program at Stonehill College, email the director of the program, Cheryl Schnitzer or visit her LinkedIn profile.
If you want to read Vivian (Ngoc) Vu’s TechConnect World 2024 presentation from our Washington, D.C. trip, the PDF is here or you can download it just below the viewing window.
Kendall is a technician at Indium, where he focuses on materials used in electronics assembly. He shares insights into the precision and care required in his work, especially when working with high-tech soldering materials. Kendall reflects on how his technical training and attention to detail ensure the production of reliable, high-quality components used in electronics worldwide.
Kendall, a technician at Indium, shares the experience working in the manufacturing industry and the journey to becoming a technician. Kendall discusses the role of Indium as a materials refiner and supplier to the electronics and semiconductor markets. Kendall describes daily tasks operating a rolling mill and the various alloys produced at Indium and also talks about the opportunities for professional growth, benefits, and work schedule at the company. Kendall highlights the importance of creativity and flexibility in the manufacturing industry and offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career as a technician.
The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.
Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.
Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.
Links from the show:
Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/
This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/15330246-s04-e09-kendall-is-a-technician-at-indium
If you prefer to listen via YouTube:
Jamel works as a technician at TEL, contributing to the manufacturing and servicing of advanced equipment used in semiconductor production. In this episode, he explains how his hands-on skills and problem-solving expertise help keep the production process efficient and reliable. Jamel also discusses the importance of continuous training and adapting to new technology in a rapidly changing industry.
Jamel is a Technician at Tokyo Electron, also called TEL in Hillsboro, OR outside of Portland. Jamel was part of the Vet S.T.E.P. program that helps military service members transition into the civilian sector. Jamel talks about how the skills and practices he learned and used in the military can be transferred and employed as a technician in the semiconductor industry.
The Talking Technicians podcast is produced by MNT-EC, the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, through financial support from the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education grant program.
Opinions expressed on this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the National Science Foundation.
Join the conversation. If you are a working technician or know someone who is, reach out to us at info@talkingtechnicians.org.
Links from the show:
Episode Web Page: https://micronanoeducation.org/students-parents/talking-technicians-podcast/
Jobs at TEL: https://www.tel.com/careers/
Learn more about Vet S.T.E.P.: https://video.wmht.org/video/vet-step-gap-bridging-from-military-to-microelectronics-uvqeln/
This Podcast was originally published at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1538071/15005377-s04-e08-jamel-is-a-technician-at-tel
If you prefer to listen via YouTube:
Location: Washington, United States
Location: Iowa, United States
In this month’s “Spotlight,” we shine a light on two extraordinary individuals whose contributions to mentoring at MNT-EC and Mentor-Connect have been transformative. Mel Cossette and Greg Kepner have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also dedicated countless hours to nurturing the next generation of technicians and engineers. Their combined efforts have significantly impacted educational outcomes and industry readiness.
As Center Manager, I have worked with Mel and Greg for over a decade and have come to know them quite well. Mel has mentored me in various ways over the years, and she has helped me grow personally and professionally. The ATE community is close-knit, and they both love to help people make connections, especially those new to the community. Their support for me over the years has been invaluable personally and professionally in helping me grow and mature as a person and as a leader. Their guidance and support have helped to make MNT-EC stronger.
Role: Former Executive Director/Principal Investigator, Online Instructional Resources for Material Science Technology Education
Background and Contributions Our Team – Micro Nano Technology Education Center
Mel Cossette is the former Executive Director/Principal Investigator for the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education funded Online Instructional Resources for Material Science Technology Education [formerly the National Resource Center for Materials Technology Education (MatEdU)] and the Technician Education and Additive Manufacturing & Materials project housed at Edmonds College in Lynnwood, WA. She is also a Co-PI on the NSF ATE funded Micro Nano Technology Education Center.
Mel serves as an ETAC Commissioner for ABET through SME and a founding member of ABET’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Advisory Council and has 20+ years of experience in manufacturing education focusing on technician education and workforce development. She has developed technician education programs for industry and educational institutions; serves on numerous committees and national boards; worked in various industries; and held administrative and faculty positions within the community and technical college system.
Role: Co-Principal Investigator, Micro Nano Technology Education Center
Background and Contributions Our Team – Micro Nano Technology Education Center
Greg Kepner, M.Ed, serves as a Co-Principal Investigator for the NSF-ATE Micro Nano Technology Education Center. With over three decades of experience in education and industry, Greg has a profound understanding of the technical and educational landscapes. He served as the Director/Principal Investigator of the NSF-ATE Midwest Photonics Education Center for five years and as a Principal Investigator for ATE projects. Additionally, he was briefly a Co-PI for the OP-TEC national center.
Greg retired from Indian Hills Community College, where he was the Department Chair of the Advanced Manufacturing Department. His prior roles at IHCC included Industrial Technology Coordinator and Robotics/Automation instructor. Greg holds a master’s degree in Higher Education, Community College Leadership from Iowa State University, a BA Degree from Buena Vista University, and an AA and AAS Degree in Electronics Technology from IHCC. His industry experience includes serving as a senior field service engineer in semiconductor manufacturing in Silicon Valley.
Both Mel and Greg have significantly contributed to mentoring initiatives at MNT-EC and NSF-funded Mentor-Connect. Their collaborative efforts have developed robust mentoring programs that align educational outcomes with industry needs, ensuring students receive the necessary guidance and skills to succeed in today’s job market.
Educational Innovations: Through their mentoring activities, Mel and Greg developed a co-mentoring model in collaboration with Mentor-Connect. While having specific mentees assigned to them through Mentor-Connect, they cultivate mentees through MNT-EC and then mentor these mentees jointly, enhancing the support system within the center.
Greg has been instrumental in leading ATE outreach efforts. As part of the ACOE during 2020-24, he hosted the ATE Community Exhibit Booth at 28 national, regional, or state conferences and gave presentations, hosted round-table discussions, or poster sessions at 17 conferences. Following the ACOE project, Greg and Mel developed the NSF ATE NavigATE project that was recently awarded to continue hosting the ATE Community exhibit, aimed at increasing awareness and visibility of the ATE program, the ATE centers and projects, mentoring initiatives, and educational materials and resources developed through the program. Recent article about Greg’s experiences with outreach: Maximizing Conference Impact with Greg Kepner.
In addition to her work in mentoring, Mel Cossette has been a driving force in advancing DEI within the field of nanotechnology education. She is a founding member of ABET’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Council. Being an active member with the IDEA Council and other initiatives underscores her commitment to creating inclusive environments where all individuals, regardless of background, can thrive in STEM fields. Recent article about Mel’s experiences with DEI: ABET News Roundup: Voices in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
Mel and Greg find immense satisfaction in mentoring and witnessing the growth and success of their mentees. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experiences, helping students and colleagues navigate their career paths. They are excited to meet new people so they can welcome them to the ATE Community. They love to introduce people to the ATE Community and help develop new partnerships, encourage collaborations, and grow personal networks.
For those interested in learning more about their work or discussing potential collaborations, Mel and Greg are available via their respective emails. They welcome inquiries from educators, industry professionals, and students eager to explore the dynamic world of micro and nanotechnology.
Want to talk more about Nano? Get in touch with me. Are you in industry and want to get involved, reach out to myself or Mel or Greg at the above email links.
Thanks,
Billie
Welcome to our new series, “Student Success Stories,” where we highlight students’ journeys who have made significant strides in their education and careers through community college. Today, we feature Anton McFadden, a community college graduate with an inspiring story.
You can learn more about Anton at this LinkedIn profile here.
Jared Ashcroft: Anton, can you give us a quick background about yourself and your educational experiences?
Anton McFadden: I graduated high school in 2013 and started at the Community College of Philadelphia in 2015, majoring in Cellular Molecular Biology. It took me seven years due to my desire to gain extensive research experience. My first job was as a lab assistant at the college, and now I’m pursuing my bachelor’s in biology at Cheyney University with plans for a PhD.
Jared Ashcroft: Why did you choose to start at a community college?
Anton McFadden: The financial feasibility and the personal attention at the Community College of Philadelphia made it an ideal choice. It provided a supportive environment with many resources and partnerships.
Jared Ashcroft: Have your academic and career goals changed since starting at the community college?
Anton McFadden: Yes, somewhat. While my ultimate goal was always a PhD, the community college illuminated additional pathways and connected me with people who supported my aspirations.
Jared Ashcroft: Who at the Community College of Philadelphia supported your academic progress?
Anton McFadden: Professor Linda Gerz offered me a job in the chemistry lab, which was pivotal. Other supportive professors included Professor Edward Miskiel, Dr. Catherine Malele, and Dr. Kerri Armstrong, who encouraged me to pursue higher education.
Jared Ashcroft: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your time at CCP?
Anton McFadden: The network of supportive peers and faculty was invaluable. Graduating and honoring the support of my professors, family, and friends was the proudest moment of my life.
Jared Ashcroft: Can you share a memorable experience at CCP?
Anton McFadden: Carrying out experiments and learning to think critically like a researcher was very rewarding. Adapting to different courses and excelling in them was also a significant achievement.
Jared Ashcroft: What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
Anton McFadden: Financial challenges were significant, but scholarships and my job in the chem lab helped. Understanding coursework was also challenging, but office hours and support from professors made a big difference.
Jared Ashcroft: What extracurricular activities were you involved in?
Anton McFadden: I was part of the International Students Association, which raised awareness about international students’ challenges. I also worked as a cleanroom assistant in the nanotechnology center.
Jared Ashcroft: How did the MNT-CURN program benefit you?
Anton McFadden: The networking opportunities were crucial. The program exposed me to various fields and helped me develop valuable skills through interaction with professionals and peers.
Jared Ashcroft: What advice would you give to new or prospective community college students?
Anton McFadden:
Jared Ashcroft: What are your plans, and how did CCP prepare you for them?
Anton McFadden: I plan to pursue a PhD after completing my bachelor’s at Cheyney University. The confidence, skills, and training I received at CCP were instrumental in preparing me for this journey.
Jared Ashcroft: Thank you, Anton, for sharing your inspiring journey with us. Your story is a testament to the value of community college education and its impact on one’s career and personal growth.
If you would like to learn more about MNT-EC or Nanotechnology or ways that community colleges are making a difference, please contact me directly here.
