On May 28, 2025, students at Illahee Middle School had the opportunity to participate in an IGNITE Mini-Panel, which offered real talk, relatable advice, and a glimpse into life after middle school. Led by Sarah Potter, Program Manager at College Success Foundation, and joined by Gina Adams, Software Coordinator at Macdonald-Miller Facility Solutions, the session combined a short presentation with a dynamic Q&A that kept students fully engaged.
Both Panelists shared their authentic journeys, including the mistakes they made, how they chose their careers, and the importance of maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Students asked thoughtful questions like, “What mistakes did you make?”, “How do you choose what company to work for?”, “What if I’m undecided about a career?”, and even “What are your job icks?” Their curiosity sparked an open conversation about career exploration, decision-making, and self-worth.
The Panelists emphasized that it’s okay to make mistakes and change your path, that speaking up and voicing your opinions matters, and that students should take every opportunity to try new things. Gina encouraged students to start building a portfolio of certifications and trainings, and to pay attention to their hobbies—they might just evolve into future careers.
Educators Phil Villanueva, Nolita Bentley, and Melissa Smith noted how engaged the students were and how the Panelists’ honesty and openness resonated. The comfortable and encouraging environment allowed students to connect, ask questions freely, and walk away with not only advice but a deeper understanding of what it means to build a meaningful and flexible career path.
“Today’s event inspired me to remember that even if I’m told I can’t do something, I should go after it anyway. It inspired me to keep pursuing my dreams. My favorite thing I learned was that there are many jobs in STEM and that every job has its challenges.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It made me feel more confident to do what I want to do. It also gave me great advice! My favorite thing I learned was why the volunteers chose the careers they did. Thank you!”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event showed me that even as a girl, I can get a job, and I don’t need to work twice as hard just to be valued. I learned about the struggles others have gone through and how they still have great jobs.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today inspired me so much, especially how nowadays girls are getting into STEM more than in the past. The two guest speakers really explained STEM in a way that inspired me. I loved hearing about collaboration and how it supports trans youth, girls, Black youth, and more.”
8th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
83%
INTERESTED IN STEM
67%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
70%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
72%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“I was feeling a bit scared about what my future would be. But this made me feel more hopeful and less scared. I learned that the world is not that scary, and that some people are really nice. But there will be challenges I’ll have to overcome.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“This inspired me to speak up and voice my opinions. I would like to learn more, and I loved when they talked about money and home life.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It showed me that there are several types of STEM careers that anyone can do. I learned that you can even get paid to go on trips!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“You can get as many degrees as you’d like, but you have to find your own passion. I learned that software specialists always have to stay one step ahead.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was an amazing speech, and it was even better because it was given by women. I learned about Stanford and how the speakers really felt about their jobs.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It made me more open to trying things (that are available for my age) that will help me think about what I want to do in the future. I learned about different STEM jobs and ways to explore my interests.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me to pursue a job in science and technology. I learned about companies in STEM fields and what some of them do.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It really opened my eyes. I now understand things I never thought I would. I learned that I can change what I want to do—and it’s okay to ‘do it all.'” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It encouraged me to keep searching for the STEM job I want. I learned more about STEM!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was amazing and helped me understand where my interests lie and what I’m passionate about. I also learned the importance of self-care and taking time—there’s no rush in life.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to believe that all girls can do anything and be successful. I also learned to try new things and ask questions.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“It made me feel better about myself, knowing I can make a difference. It made me feel like I belong. I liked learning about the volunteers’ lives and how STEM impacted them.” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“They inspired me by talking about different jobs and how they can create change in life. My favorite part was how specific and kind they were—thank you so much!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me by showing that there will be hardships and difficulties, but also cool opportunities that come with it. My favorite thing I learned was that STEM careers can include travel!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
“I love how confident you all made me feel. Super inspiring!” – 8th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Sarah Potter
- Gina Adams
- Phil Villanueva
- Nolita Bentley
- Melissa Smith
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.