On Saturday, November 2, 2024, the Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program (KCGIP) and UO STEM CORE hosted the 3rd Annual Oregon Pathways to Industry Research Careers (OPRIC) Internfest, a dynamic event designed to connect community college and UO-transfer students with faculty, staff, and industry professionals. This year’s event focused on fostering learning, community building, and networking opportunities. OPRIC, a $4.3 million initiative funded by the National Science Foundation, supports students with financial need along their journey from community colleges to successful careers in STEM fields.
Internfest began with a welcome session that allowed attendees to familiarize themselves with one another, setting the tone for a day of collaboration and engagement. The event featured networking opportunities during lunch, a tour of the Knight Campus and CAMCOR facilities, and various workshops designed around advising and career visioning.
During the event, students also had the opportunity to hear from a panel of KCGIP alumni who have successfully navigated paths from community college, through undergrad, and to industry via the master's program. Aileen Calletano, a tech services representative at Hexion; Malachi Kuhse, a systems engineer at Collins Aerospace; Sam Roland, an analytical chemist at Nike; and Emma Speight, an equipment engineer at Analog Devices, shared their experiences in transitioning from one stage of their education to another, managing imposter syndrome, building skills and community at the KCGIP and how it helped prepare them for their current roles.
"I loved getting the chance to see a glimpse of what this pathway could look like and to talk to students who have been in my shoes," said Elliot Wood, a current OPIRC student.
Another OPIRC participant, Jonathan Boutan, noted, "OPRIC has helped me see myself as a scientist, something that has been difficult for me because I’ve only ever known laborers in my life. Being able to imagine myself in the position of the alumni motivates me to continue on this path."
The success of Internfest underscores the importance of programs like OPRIC in providing students with the resources, mentorship, and connections necessary to succeed in STEM careers. Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s event. We look forward to Internfest 2025!