On December 2, 2024, SWE-Dallas joined forces with the Dallas chapters of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) to host the transformative 2024 Pathways 2 College Conference with the theme of STEM in Action! The primary objective of the event was to equip rising juniors and seniors in high school with the essential knowledge and skills needed to navigate the college preparation process. Our VP of Professional Development, Nicole Anklam, acted as MC for the day.
The day started with the host, SMU’s Lyle College of Engineering Admissions office, giving a breakdown of all they have to offer their students and the different programs they offer. The conference featured a lineup of insightful speakers who covered a wide array of topics. Shane Bybee went over the art of crafting compelling college application essays and demystifying the application process. Attendees also had the privilege of hearing from Jay Veal and Tandy Caraway on scholarship applications, changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in their presentation “On My Mama, On My Hood, Money Looks Fly, Scholarships are Good!” The last session was on strategies for managing finances and time in “Staying on Top of Things” by Lawrence Hatchett.
The students also were able to see a collegiate panel held during lunch, featuring speakers from NSBE and SHPE who shared practical tips and advice for thriving in college. Local companies actively participated in the event, offering hands-on activities and presentations that allowed students to gain a deeper understanding of STEM fields. The culmination of the conference was marked by the awarding of approximately $5000 in scholarships to deserving applicants, underscoring the commitment of the three organizations and sponsors to supporting the educational aspirations of future STEM students and leaders.
P2C served as an empowering environment for young minds as they embark on their journey towards higher education. As a result, the conference made a significant impact on the lives of the attendees, arming them with the tools and knowledge necessary to confidently navigate their paths to college and beyond.
