海角直播’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences proudly celebrates the achievements of four outstanding students in the STEM Scholars Program as they prepare to graduate this spring.
The STEM Scholars Program, designed to support students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, has helped these graduates thrive both academically and professionally through research opportunities, internships, leadership development and career preparation.
Syrus Fitts, a computer science major from Birmingham, reflected on how the program shaped his personal and professional growth. “Being part of the STEM Program showed me the significance of connecting and networking with others,” Fitts said. “It also helped me become comfortable having important, sometimes difficult conversations.” Following graduation, Fitts plans to enter the workforce and gain valuable professional experience.
Murphy Igbakpa, a neuroscience major from Sapele, Nigeria, credited the program for providing critical hands-on experiences. “Participating in the STEM Scholars Program at Samford provided me with invaluable research and internship experiences at Organogenesis,” Igbakpa said. “Collaborating with distinguished scientists deepened my appreciation for teamwork and innovation in regenerative medicine.” Over the next year, Igbakpa will complete Surgical Technician School through the U.S. Army, preparing for medical school and a future career advancing patient care.
Jose Ocampo, a computer science major from Birmingham, credits the program for helping him grow professionally by encouraging participation in networking events and conferences, including the 2024 National STEM Conference in Chicago. “The STEM Scholars Program helped me prepare for life after graduation through our weekly meetings, discussions and professional workshops,” Ocampo said. After graduation, he plans to marry his fiancée and work as a software engineer in Atlanta, Georgia.
Jaren Lobb, a biochemistry major originally from Calgary, Canada who grew up in Dakar, Senegal and Gainesville, Georgia, emphasized the vital support the program provided in making his college education possible. “The STEM program made it possible for me to pursue my interests without worrying about financial challenges,” he said. This fall, Lobb will begin graduate school at Emory University, where he will pursue a PhD in organic chemistry with a focus on biocatalysis or total synthesis research.
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