Ashley Hall’s Middle and Upper School students spent a recent morning exploring big questions, bold ideas, and exciting career paths during this year’s STEM Day. It was a dynamic celebration of science, technology, engineering, and math that highlighted not just what our students can do, but who they can become.

The day began with a full-panel session featuring an impressive group of leaders from fields spanning pediatric neurology, aerospace engineering, AI, environmental science, cybersecurity, water quality, design, and engineering leadership. Student moderators guided the conversation with thoughtful, probing questions that brought out personal stories, unexpected career paths, and practical advice.

Dr. Lela Lewis, Division Chief of Pediatric Neurology at the Medical University of South Carolina shared a vivid childhood memory of her mother (also a physician) bringing home a sheep’s brain after teaching a hospital class; a moment that sparked her lifelong fascination with the human brain. “Seeing a child’s development over time and how the brain changes over time has always been fascinating to me,” Dr. Lewis shared. That early curiosity led her through medical school, Air Force service, and advanced training at Johns Hopkins, and ultimately to her leadership role at MUSC. Her story was a powerful reminder that big careers often begin with small moments of wonder.

Students also heard from Rebecca Gleason, Head of Global Industry Engagement for AI & Business Messaging at Meta, whose path to tech leadership was anything but traditional. A liberal arts major who didn’t grow up dreaming of a career in AI, Ms. Gleason emphasized that success in STEM isn’t limited to one specific degree or background. “No matter what degree you choose to pursue, the most important thing you can do is be able to communicate with people in a language they can hear,” she said. A message that resonated deeply with students who are considering how their own interests might intersect with STEM fields.

The panel showcased a remarkable range of expertise. Dr. Lynn Sargent, a structural analysis engineer at Boeing, spoke about research and innovation in aerospace and AI-driven digital transformation. Cole Rise, Director of Design for Microsoft AI and designer of the original Instagram icon, shared how creativity and technology intersect in powerful ways.

From The Citadel, Dr. Deepti Joshi, Dr. Shadi Sadeghpour, Dr. Farhath Zareen, and Dr. Nahid Vesali highlighted cutting-edge work in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, bioinformatics, engineering leadership, and machine learning, and emphasized the importance of undergraduate research and mentorship.

Environmental leaders also took the stage. Allison Montgomery, Conservation Planner at Westervelt Ecological Services, described using data-driven analysis to protect wetlands and natural resources. Olivia Flynn, Environmental Engineer and Associate Vice President at Hazen and Sawyer, and Guinn Wallover of Mount Pleasant Waterworks, demonstrated how engineering and environmental science directly impact community health and sustainability.

Rounding out the healthcare perspective, Lauren Fogelgren, Head of Health Services at Ashley Hall and a practicing physician assistant, connected clinical care with evidence-based practice and compassion, reminding students that STEM careers are ultimately about improving lives.

After the morning panel, students broke into grade-level groups for smaller, more interactive sessions. These in-depth conversations and hands-on activities allowed students to dive deeper into topics like AI ethics, water treatment systems, cybersecurity threats, neurological research, and engineering project management. The smaller setting created space for candid questions, mentorship, and meaningful dialogue about internships, college majors, and work-life balance.

Throughout the day, one theme rose above the rest: there is no single path into STEM. Whether sparked by a childhood memory, a love of the outdoors, a passion for problem-solving, or an interest in storytelling and design, each panelist demonstrated that curiosity, resilience, and communication are just as important as technical skill.

STEM Day at Ashley Hall did a wonderful job of highlighting the different career options available to students, but it was also about possibility. It was a celebration of leaders in complex, innovative fields and an invitation for our students to imagine themselves doing the same.