The Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation, IINSPIRE LSAMP, is a group of colleges in the Midwest focused on boosting the involvement of minorities in STEM fields that started in 2011 with support from the NSF LSAMP. These colleges work together to create opportunities for underrepresented students in STEM, helping them succeed academically and professionally. IINSPIRE LSAMP aims to increase the number of STEM degrees awarded to minority students, support them throughout their studies, and enhance their learning experience through various methods and research.
Chemurgy 2.0 has placed an emphasis on student outreach and development. Our program strongly encourages and supports students participating in STEM research fields. We reached out Zakiya Jenkins, a former IINSPIRE LSAMP participant, and asked about her experience with the IINSPIRE LSAMP program.
Introduction/Background
Can you tell me a bit about yourself and your background in STEM?
My name is Zakiya Jenkins, and I live in Des Moines, Iowa. I have a 16-year-old daughter and two dogs. I have my master’s degree in public administration from Upper Iowa University and I am currently a junior at Iowa State University seeking a degree as a registered dietitian. I founded a non-profit Grace Fitness as a way to help those living in vulnerable, marginalized communities get healthy. I had no previous background in STEM.
How did you first learn about the LSAMP program, and what motivated you to participate?
I learned about the LSAMP program from my mentor Dr. Sarah Francis and what motivated me to participate was learning about research. I have heard the term loosely but once she explained how my passion can fuel and inspire those in STEM I became instantly interested and I also needed help paying for my tuition and LSAMP provides a stipend.
LSAMP Experience
How has LSAMP supported your academic and professional development in STEM?
LSAMP has supported me in more ways than one. First, it has allowed me to meet so many wonderful people working in the research field. I am so amazed about how many people are working on so many important, different things. Secondly, I have learned so much about research and where it can take me both personally and professionally. Lastly, LSAMP supports me by helping with a stipend and as a mother to a teenager that allows me to focus on my studies without the barrier of financial stress as I am trying to learn and balance life.
Can you share any specific resources or opportunities provided by LSAMP that have been particularly impactful for you?
As I stated in my previous response, the stipend is huge as it allows me to learn while still receiving financial help and the networking with other students and faculty has impacted my life in a positive way.
Which projects have you been involved in through LSAMP? Describe your experience and the skills you gained.
I have been working on creating a culturally appropriate cookbook for the black community. The black community experiences high rate of diabetes, hypertension, stroke, and obesity than any other race and this research project will provide them a resource that will give them options for mindful eating tips and allowing for healthier recipes without sacrificing taste. I also was involved in my first symposium this past summer.
How has LSAMP contributed to your academic success and progression in your studies, STEM related or not?
LSAMP has contributed to my academic success by opening my mind to new possibilities. I never thought about being a researcher but now I am exploring way to merge my passion, purpose, and the work I am currently doing and how to integrate that in research so I can have a broader reach and be more impactful in my community. I also received my IBR Human Research certificate, which I would have known nothing about, if it were not for LSAMP.
Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
Have you faced any challenges in your STEM education, and how has LSAMP supported you in overcoming them?
Yes, I have faced competing deadlines with school, work and my other duties as a mom and everyone has been so understanding and flexible with me and I really appreciate that. I commute to Iowa State and was unable to attend the meeting in the evenings and the LSAMP staff was gracious enough to zoom the meeting so I can attend.
What advice do you have for other students who may be facing similar challenges in pursuing STEM degrees?
I would encourage them to communicate with the faculty of LSAMP and their mentors so they both know what challenges you are facing so they can provide the resources to help.
Future Goals
How has LSAMP influenced your career aspirations?
Wow, I want to do a few research projects around black health, eating habits and access to available foods. My wheels are spinning on how I can affect health through research. It has made me think about going to get my PHD now; I wish I knew about this sooner, but I am here now.
Can you share any collaborative experiences within the LSAMP community or with fellow participants?
I have not collaborated with any other participants on this research project.
Have you continued to be involved in STEM-related activities or organizations after completing LSAMP?
I am involved in the upcoming symposium February 9 & February 10th in Ames where I will present my poster on the work I have done so far in LSAMP.
Personal Growth
In what ways have you personally grown or developed as a result of your involvement with LSAMP?
I have grown as person in so many ways. I am more confident in the work that I am doing because the need is there and I have improved my time management skills.
Are there specific skills or qualities you've gained that you believe will be valuable in your future STEM career?
Time management, a desire to learn more, and my communication skills.
How did LSAMP contribute to building a sense of community among underrepresented minorities in STEM at your school or institution?
There are very few black students that attend Iowa State University so being in a room full of other minorities was encouraging and a welcomed sight to see.
Final Thoughts
What advice would you give to other students considering participation in LSAMP or similar programs?
I would encourage them to explore it. I would tell them the word STEM can be overwhelming and intimidating but you really do learn a lot and meet some amazing people. I would tell them to open themselves up to new opportunities and I can guarantee them, they will get a lot out of it. It allows you to be a change agent in your community and potentially around the world. Do not let fear stop you from participating in LSAMP.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your LSAMP experience or your journey in STEM?
I want to thank my mentor Dr. Sarah Francis for being so gracious and patient with me; she has taught me so much. Venkata (Sri) Kompella and Mary Darrow for all their support and guidance being new to LSAMP. This has been a fantastic experience for me, and I am looking forward to what is to come for me by participating in LSAMP.
In your opinion, how important is diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, and how has LSAMP played a role in promoting these values?
Diversity and inclusion mean everything in the STEM field because representation matters. When you see someone that looks like you engaged in this type of work, it inspires you that if they can do it, so can you. I was inspired that LSAMP was so diverse. When I walked into the class for the first time, I saw other minorities, I felt at ease as soon as I walked because I was not the only minority in the room for a change and I appreciated that.
Learn more about IINSPIRE LSAMP: IINSPIRE LSAMP – STEM Alliance
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.2242763