What It's Like to be Part of the World's Smartest Network®

The New York Academy of Sciences not only connects professional scientists, it also connects aspiring students from around the world with each other and expert mentors. What is it like to be part of this world’s smartest network? The students are able to connect with their peers who are also passionate about STEM, learn from STEM professionals, and gain access to unique opportunities through the Academy’s online platform. Three of these bright students shared why they love about being part of the world’s smartest network.

Chavonne Bowen from Barbados hadn’t participated in a STEM mentoring program before the Next Scholars program. Joining this network and having a mentor has boosted her confidence. On a similar note, Jenna Manzo, a 1000 Girls, 1000 Futures participant from New Jersey, also said she’s become more confident and sociable, feeling more able to “break out of her comfort zone.”

“Being able to meet and interact with students just like myself, from all around the world is quite exciting,” said Krish Joshi, a Junior Academy student from Canada. “I have also loved working with the mentors who are experts in their field.

Both Jenna and Chavonne’s favorite thing about being part of an Academy program is the annual Global STEM Alliance Summit. They love the opportunity to meet face-to-face with the peers that they’ve been connecting with online through the Academy’s learning platform.

“The global network of bright, STEM-inspired individuals in the Global STEM Alliance is truly powerful and something I am proud to be a part of,” said Jenna.

Meeting their peers and receiving expert advice from their mentors isn’t the only opportunity these students have been given. Jenna was able to present her research project at the Shanghai International STEM Expo in August, while Krish met Nobel Laureates and internationally renowned scientists at the Academy’s Challenge 2030 event in May.

That wide-reaching focus helped Jenna learned about “other cultures, received insights on future career opportunities, and shared ideas with her peers.” Chavonne expanded on that lesson, learning to never conceal her ideas and opinions because they hold value. She also learned that to continue her self-improvement, she has to continuously reflect on her accomplishments and how she can improve herself so that she can achieve her long-term and short-term goals. While Krish integrated the skills he developed into his science fair presentation, winning a Canadian National Science Fair.

“The community is a place full of acceptance, encouragement, and positivity,” said Jenna. “In our discussion board, no idea is shot down or ignored and everyone has a chance to be heard. We are truly working towards tomorrow, together.”

“The best part of being in [an Academy program] is to be associated with a brilliant scientific community, which strives to make a positive change in the world through STEM,” said Krish.

If you want to be part of world’s smartest network, we are now recruiting for our 1000 Girls, 1000 Futures program. Find out more information and apply here.