STEM at St. Mike's Dec 05, 2022
Doctors and Robots!
After some time off, the STEM at Saint Mikes podcast has returned with a new episode! This week, Mia interviewed her dad, Dr.Cooper, as he is a physician at Glens Falls Hospital. Dr.Cooper shares about his experience in medical school and doing surgery on a robot! Tune in to hear some pretty cool medical innovations!!!
Green Up and the SMC Farm!
This week, we talked to Peyton Edwards about her experience with Green Up and working on the farm through a class here at school. She talks about combining her MJD major with her love for the environment.
If You Think Engineering is Hard, You're Right
This week we talked to Joey Del Toro. Joey is currently enrolled in the 3+2 program through SMC and UVM. He shared the benefits of spreading out his engineering classes and what it is like being a dual student. Thanks for listening!
Qualitative vs Quantitative Research; The Ultimate Debate
This week, we spoke with Greg Hurter, a Public Health major who has done research over the past few years regarding vaccine hesitancy and vaccination rates. We talk about the difference between social science and biological science research and how each poses its own challenges. We also have a discussion on vaccine hesitancy.
Crispr is Cool
This week, we talk to Josh Weiss about his experience taking part in REU programs, working in a Crispr lab and how to best apply to do research. Stay tuned next week for our new intro song!!
Cue Reactivity and a Discussion about Substance abuse
This week, we talked about cue reactivity and the psychology, neurology, and social entities surrounding substance use. We have linked sources if you or anybody you know is struggling.
https://www.nami.org/Home
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/
Article: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.02.26.966549v1.full
Energy that Makes the Conversation Just Keep Going...
This week we spoke with Noah Taracena and Henry Ferrari about renewable energy. Both Noah and Henry had a lot to share so we have a longer episode today! Noah was very excited for his first podcast appearance and were hoping to speak to him again. Thanks for tuning in :)
So Do You Really Wanna Work in a Lab?
This week we sat down (or better said, zoomed in) With Emilie Hoffman to talk about her experience working at a lab in Colchester this summer. Emilie talks abut what she liked and how she has found her passion for health care. Apologies for the sub par audio, due to illness our podcast was recorded over zoom which gave the audio some sparkle.
The Ultimate Science and True Crime Crossover
This week, Lily shares an article she found about enzyme degradation in the body after time of death and how you can use science to help murder mystery. We also talk about use of animals in scientific research and the ethics behind this. Thanks for listening as we navigate our first few weeks on editing our podcast!!
Toxins in our Everyday Lives
This week we talked to the Toxicology class from last spring about toxins that are highly prevalent in our everyday lives.
2022 Stem at SMC Podcast-Introductions
Welcome to the STEM at SMC Podcast! Today, Mia and Lily will be introducing themselves and explaining their summer research!
Spring Semester Wrap-Up!
This week we wrapped up the spring semester and talked about our favorite STEM at St. Mike's memories! Next semester, we are handing off the podcast to Lily and Mia who have some really great ideas about where they want to take the show! Stay tuned for next semester.
Contact Us!:
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Toxins in the World Around Us
Join us this week as we meet with Professor Fabian-Fine's Senior Seminar students who are studying the effects of poisons, toxins, and venoms on humans. Students will be discussing a wide variety of topics ranging from the dangers of micro-plastics to poisonous plants you may encounter in Vermont.
Contact Us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Learn about Antibiotic Resistance with Cecelia!
This week we talked with our very own co-host, Cecelia! She discusses her research from the past year and a half with Prof. Podnecky and some results she hopes to present at the Academic Symposium later this week! Tune in to see how you can get involved with projects like this one and learn more about antibiotic resistance.
Contact Us!:
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Senior Spotlight: Emma!
This week we spoke with neuroscience senior, Emma. She told us all about her research experience with Professor Kirshenbaum and the conference she, along with other students, was able to attend in New York City this spring!
Contact Us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The Science of Endurance Training
Have you ever wondered how endurance athletes make sure they are performing their best? This week we are joined by the head coach of the men's and women's cross-country team and nordic ski team, Molly Peters. Molly, who graduated from Middlebury with a biology degree, talks about the science behind training for endurance sports, including knowing what workouts are best and how nutrition can impact an athlete. We also talk about the recent fluorocarbon ski wax ban which will have major implications on both human and environmental health.
Contact Us!:
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The ACS Conference with Cailey Comiskey
Our very own hosts Cailey Comiskey had the opportunity to join a select few students and professors in sunny San Diego for the American Chemical Society Conference! Presenting on her environmental chemistry research Cailey talks with us today about the value of her experience and encouragement for anyone who may want to attend the ACS conference in future years!
Contact Us!:
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Getting to know our seniors: Lexi Amaio!
This week we talked with one of our Biochemistry seniors who is hoping to go into pediatric emergency medicine after graduation, Lexi Amaio! Aside from school, Lexi is a member of our Fire & Rescue program, which is very unique to St. Mike's. It offers opportunities for students to get invaluable patient-contact and volunteer hours among other things - and for some can even open up other career opportunities after graduation! Lexi also offers great advice for people who may want to follow a similar path, tune in to find out!
Contact Us!:
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Catching up with Professor Larsen!
This week we met with Professor Larsen, chair of the Math and Statistics department and director of the Data Science program here on campus! Professor Larsen received a PhD in Statistics from Harvard. In addition, he received tenure at Iowa State University and promotion to full professor at George Washington University before coming to St. Mike's in 2017.
In this episode, we talked with Professor Larsen about bringing the statistics and data science majors to St. Mike's in 2018 and how that program is still continuing to grow today. We also talked about what research can look like in math and statistics and some great opportunities here on campus!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
SEA Semester with Nadia Racz!
In this week’s episode, we spoke with Nadia Racz, a senior Biology major with an environmental studies minor. We discussed her experience at sea in the Caribbean and the process she went through in order to study abroad. Listen to this episode to learn tips on how to prepare yourself for study abroad and the cool experiences Nadia had while away from her home away from home.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Conversations about Conservation with Professor Stanger!
This week we had the opportunity to talk with Professor Trevien Stanger, who received his undergraduate degree from Saint Mike's in '05 and returned to St. Mike's after completing his graduate education. Stanger in an Instructor in the Environmental Studies & Sciences Department as well as the Vermont State Director of the Society of Ecological Restoration. We discussed what classes the Environmental Studies department offers as well as how Saint Mike's makes conservation efforts so accessible for students. Professor Stanger also talks about the SMC Natural Area, a project that he helped spearhead, and its importance in ecological restoration.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Valentine's Day with Dr. and Dr. Chant!
Love is in the air this week as we meet with Professors Christina and Alan Chant! Join us as we talk with the Chants about all things chemistry (the lab and the love kind). You'll hear how the Chants met, what their favorite parts of chemistry are, and some tips for finding things you love outside of academics!
Contact Us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Getting to know Professor Lamos!
This week we met with Professor Lamos and learned more about both his time here as a student and a professor. We also talked about some research projects he is currently working on concerning environmental impacts of human activity right here in Vermont! If you are looking to get involved with research here on campus, Professor Lamos gives students wonderful advice about how to find a mentor and a research project that is exciting to them.
Contact Us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The Intersection between Math and Chemistry with Mitch!
This week we talked with Mitchell Andrea, an upcoming spring '22 grad. Mitch has been working on a research project that makes math more applicable to those in the physical and biological sciences and will get to present his research at the national ACS conference. We also discussed the dental school application process; feel free to reach out to Mitch is you want to talk about dental school! He will be starting dental school at UConn this coming fall.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Spring Semester 2022 Welcome!
Welcome back to campus! This week we introduced our plans for the semester and hope everyone is just as excited as we are! Over the course of the semester we will be introducing two new hosts who will be taking over the podcast next year. Stay tuned for some really great episodes with your favorite students and professors!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Winter Wrap Up!
This will be our last episode before everyone heads home for winter break! We hope everybody has a great finals week next week and we are looking forward to seeing you all back on campus in the spring!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Life After St.Mike's With Dan!
Dan is a recent graduate from St.Mike's who we've had as a guest on the podcast previously when he was still a student! In this episode, Dan discusses his new position in a lab and gives advice for other students who may want to follow in his footsteps. We also talk about how programming and research experience are of growing importance in the field and something Dan believes everyone should have some experience with. No matter where you are in your academic journey, there are countless opportunities to gain research experience that will only help you in your ultimate career goals. Tune in to learn more!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The Chemistry Club with Lily Sabol
This week we met with sophomore biology major Lily Sabol. Lily is the co-president of the chemistry club and wants to get her doctorate after she graduates from St. Mike's. Join us as we hear about the exciting activities and opportunities that the chemistry club offers throughout the year!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The Library and its Resources!
This week we met with one of our librarians here at Saint Mike's, Anthony! This episode will be extremely helpful for those who may be looking for resources with finals coming up. Even if you just need help finding a few more sources for a final paper, they can help! The library is here for you - so use it!
Email reference@smcvt.edu with any questions or research appointment requests and a librarian will get back to you as soon as they can.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Meet Katie Marullo!
This week we are joined by Katie Marullo, class of 2023. Katie is a biology major and is also on the soccer team at SMC! Join us as we hear about her summer research, balancing life as a student athlete, and how St. Mike's has prepared her for a career as a genetic counselor.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The 3+2 Engineering Program with Professor O'Donovan!
This week we were joined by Professor O'Donovan who teaches math and engineering at St. Mike's. She will be explaining the 3+2 engineering program that SMC has with our neighboring college, the University of Vermont.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Senior Spotlight: Azriel!
This week we met with Chemistry senior and ACS Undergraduate Award for Analytical Chemistry recipient, Azriel Finsterer! In this episode, we talk about the research Azriel conducted over the summer with Professor Heroux and the benefits that research, particularly in the summer, can have for any and every student. In addition to his academic responsibilities, he is also a member of Mike Check, the Peace and Justice club, and the Men's rugby team!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Professor Moffett: An Amazing Woman in STEM
Join us on today's episode as we hear about Professor Moffett's journey to becoming a professor here at St. Mike's! She will also be discussing some of the challenges she faced as a woman in STEM and her advice for the next generation of students.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Getting to know Professor Loisel!
This week we met with Professor Loisel where we talked about the classes he teaches here at St. Mike's and even got some important and insightful knowledge on vaccines.
Professor Loisel is originally from Maine and attended Colby College where he earned his undergraduate degree in Biology. He then went on to work as a research technician at MIT before earning a PhD at Duke University. Since coming to St. Mike's in 2012, Professor Loisel has been a part of many exciting research projects, including one regarding stress in students which he is currently working on with Professor VanderKaay Tomasulo.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Summer Research Recap
This week we talk with our very own Cailey Comiskey about her research experience here at St. Mike's this summer! Cailey is a junior Pre-Pharmacy major who worked with Professor Lamos for 8 weeks on the Chemistry floor investigating the lingering environmental impacts of the Elizabeth Mine in Strafford, Vermont.
This episode is a great first resource for those looking into doing summer research here on campus!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Study Abroad for STEM Majors with Peggy Imai
Have you ever wondered if study abroad was possible for STEM students? Peggy Imai is here with us this week to tell you that it absolutely is! With a little planning and some help from Peggy nearly every student can find a study abroad program that is right for them; some programs even include internships or research opportunities!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
STEM in Early Education
We are so excited to meet with Erin Candy this week, who is a junior at St. Mike's. Erin will be talking with us about the importance of STEM in elementary education and beyond. We will also get to learn about the many ways that STEM is taught to younger students!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Welcome Back!
It's a quick one this week folks! Join us as we chat about the upcoming fall semester and everything we are looking forward to here on STEM at St. Mike's!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Spring Semester Recap!
In our final episode of the semester we wanted to offer everyone an overview of this semester and some insight into our plans moving forward! Best of luck to everyone with finals, and we will see you all on campus in the fall.
Additionally, if you are interested in becoming a part of our team feel free to message us on Instagram or shoot us an email and we would love to set up a time to meet with you!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Student Spotlight: Josh!
Join us this week as we meet with biochemistry student Joshua Weiss! Josh is a student-athlete on the tennis team here at St. Mike's and he also makes time for hands on research in Professor Fabian-Fine's lab. Josh will be telling us about how his unique minors have helped him to become a better scientist and we will get to hear about his exciting REU!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Meet Professor Desjardins!
This week on the podcast we met with Professor Desjardins, or Chris as he prefers to be called. Chris is originally from from Maine and has always been fascinated by nature. He received his bachelor’s degree is in biology from the University of Maine, After undergrad, Chris did field ecology work for the next 3 years studying wolves, sea otters, prairie dogs, and birds. He eventually went to the University of Minnesota to study applied statistics in education and got a master’s and PhD there. Chris also did a very interesting post-doc at the University of Iceland. There, he implemented an ecosystem model to model the entire marine ecosystem around Iceland and got to travel around Europe and Australia! After that, Chris worked as an evaluator and researcher at the University of Minnesota and Oregon Research Institute before ultimately coming to St. Mike’s. One of the biggest things that Chris stressed in this episode was the importance of following your passion wherever it may take you!
Anyone interested in learning more could check out Chris' scholar page, https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=lyJv7IMAAAAJ&hl=en and his website, https://cddesja.github.io
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
The Farm at SMC with Professor Achilich!
This week we are so happy to be joined by Professor Kristyn Achilich. Professor Achilich is the Director of both the Farm at SMC as well as the Center for the Environment. As an educator, Kristyn teaches a number of environmental studies courses and is passionate about helping other liberal arts schools develop their own farm programs. An alumni of the biology department of our very own SMC, Professor Achilich continued her higher education both here and at the University of Vermont.
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Getting to Know Professor Karstens!
This week we met with Professor of Physics, William Karstens. Join us while we talk about Professor Karstens' experiences both here at St. Mike's and at our neighbor university, UVM. This episode is especially helpful for those interested in the engineering program, undergraduate research opportunities, and the benefits of a liberal arts education in todays world!
Contact us!
Instagram: @smcstempod
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Meet Professor McCabe!
Join us this week as we talk about all things ecology with Professor McCabe! Professor McCabe grew up in Athlone, Ireland where he started his college education in Athlone Institute of Technology. Following a summer in in the United States, he worked as a lab technician in Ireland but returned to the US for the summer of 1987…..he fell madly in love and has been here ever since. He completed his Masters in Ecology and Evolution in the University of Pittsburgh, and PHD in Ecology at UVM. He and his wife Dr. Margaret Vizzard have three children and live close to the Saint Michael's College campus where he has worked since 2001. When he’s not teaching or spending time with his family, Declan can be found in the Saint Michael's College Natural Area, exploring and learning.
Getting to Know Professor Tomasulo!
This week we had the pleasure of meeting with Professor Tomasulo, neuroscience department chair and professor of psychology. In this week's episode we talk about everything from her research with stress in students and great methods for coping with it to how this research is helping NASA with their space missions!
Contact Us!
Instagram: @stem_at_stmikes_podcast
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Meet Career Education Coach Tim Birmingham!
This week on STEM at St. Mike's we had the pleasure of discussing all things career orientated with Tim Birmingham. Tim is a 2002 graduate of our very own SMC and works as a Career Education Coach here at St. Mike's. Join us as we learn about important steps to take as an undergraduate student in order to succeed after graduation, touching on LinkedIn, resumes, internships!
Contact Us!
Instagram: @stem_at_stmikes_podcast
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Your Questions, Our Answers!
You asked, we answered! Join us this week as we answer questions from our listeners. We will cover everything from how to manage being a student-athlete to what the best dog breed is!
We would love to hear from you:
Contact Us!
Instagram: @stem_at_stmikes_podcast
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Senior Spotlight: Dan!
Join us this week when we meet with Dan Mallory, a senior Data Science and Biochemistry double major! Dan has been at Saint Mike's for six years, and shares his wisdom of not being afraid to adjust your educational timeline to be best for you - because after all, it can be whatever you want it to be. We can all learn something from Dan and we are so grateful he was willing to share his vast personal, research, and educational experiences with us!
Contact us!
Instagram: @stem_at_stmikes_podcast
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Senior Spotlight: Adele!
This week we will be chatting with chemistry senior Adele Pierce. Adele is conducting amazing environmental chemistry research alongside Professor Lamos!
Contact Us!
Instagram: @stem_at_stmikes_podcast
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com
Senior Spotlight: Conner and Annie!
This week we will be talking with seniors Annie Ledue and Conner Lorenz! In their interviews, we discuss everything from their favorite classes and Alliot workers to advice for life post graduation. Both Annie and Conner have had rich experiences here at St. Mike's, and we are so excited to share their story with you!
Conner is a Data Science major with an Economics minor. He is a part of four major honors societies: Phi Beta Kappa, Omicron Delta Epsilon, Pi Mu Epsilon, and Mu Sigma Rho.
Annie is a Secondary Education and Mathematics double major from Springville, Maine and has been an orientation leader for the past two years!
Contact Us!
Instagram: @stem_at_stmikes_podcast
Email: stematstmikes@gmail.com