The Center for Mathematical Achievement in Science and Technology started off February with a distinguished speaker.
Dr. Saundra McGuire, director Emerita of Louisiana State University Center for Academic Success and retired assistant vice chancellor, informed students and faculty about various resources and opportunities for students majoring in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The students filled a Carver Hall classroom all day on Feb. 3 for numerous sessions with Dr. McGuire. She detailed tips for overcoming the rigor of STEM courses.
With an intense educational background and a husband who teaches at Southern University, Dr. McGuire has surrounded herself with the knowledge it
takes to become successful in the STEM field. She spent 11 years at Cornell University and has been teaching chemistry and working in the area of learning and teaching support for over 40 years.
LaTerra Smith, a freshman biology major, said the greatest part of the seminar was to meet and interact with someone from a similar background, gender and career path.
Dr. McGuire is a Southern University graduate, earned a master’s from Cornnell University and collected a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Dr. McGuire used this knowledge to create five easy steps to own STEM courses called “The Study Cycle.” She also created
four steps to an intense study session for the students’ mentors to use.
The Study Cycle consisted of previewing work before class, making sure to attend class, and reviewing after class. It also included studying via the four “intense study session” tools, and assessing your learning by periodically performing reality checks.
Armani Green, a freshman biology major, said, “Studying for STEM was my biggest fear but now that I have an actual study session routine from an expert, I’m sure I’ll learn what I need.”