CAS CONNECT 2018

President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis celebrate with the first class of OSUTeach graduates to complete the program. First Grads HeadOut OSUTeach alumni appreciate variety of experiences the program offered saidMaggie Pearce, an OSUTeach graduate with a bachelor’s degree in biology. Given the name of the program, many incorrectly assume it is strictly for students interested in becoming teachers. But the main goal of the program is to increase awareness of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) areas and the teaching opportunities available. “I was able to partake in numerous field experiences, partake in authentic research, present at a national conference for biology teachers, T he first group of Oklahoma State University students to complete the OSUTeach program are heading into the workforce, ready and willing to shape young minds along with expanding the scope of science and mathematics. After spending the past four to five years in the program, this inaugural class of 13 students crossed the graduation stage inMay 2018. They are now headed to different career paths, whether teaching science to middle school students, continuing on to medical school or working as industry professionals. And the OSUTeach program— the only one of its kind in Oklahoma — played a pivotal role in preparing those students for their careers. “Over the course of my college career, I gained experiences in a variety of settings that provided insight as I prepared to find a job after college,” STORY KAROLYN MOBERLY | | PHOTOS COURTESY OSUTEACH 34 CONNECT 201 8