STEM week at NECC began on Oct. 16 and went through Oct. 20. STEM is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, during STEM week the academic centers at NECC provide an opportunity for students to brainstorm and discuss their future academic plans, explore career opportunities, and gain exclusive knowledge in the field of Science,Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
On Tuesday Oct. 17, learners met in the Center for Liberal Arts, room C209 to learn about the benefits of AI for career exploration.
The event was hosted by Katie Yeaton-Hromada who is the NECC Career Services and Internship Program coordinator.
A few NECC students were asked to pass around three different colored sticky notes to every learner in the room which were used to answer three introductory questions about AI.
The one question being what is AI and what are some examples of AI? The students were then told to put each sticky note in a different area around the room where students were able to see their peers’ answers.
Most of the students in the room were aware of what AI is and many students had used artificial intelligence apps like ChatGPT, Alexa and Siri while a few other students had not ever thought of having the need to use it.
“I know about it but I do not use it,” said Luna Cordero a student at NECC.
Students were then informed of different ways of using AI, or artificial intelligence, that can be used in a beneficial way.
For example, asking AI what are some career options a person could qualify for with an associate degree in communications?
During the exploration it was emphasized how important it is to remember that AI shouldn’t be one’s final destination when researching for career opportunities and information.
“AI is a starting point, not your finish line,” said Yeaton-Hromada.
Students and those who use AI should “always check for accuracy, bias information, watch out for lies and (students should ) never share personal information with any artificial intelligence data,” she said.
At the end of the presentation students were introduced to a few reliable career exploration resources that can be used instead of AI.
Pathful Explore is one resource shared that is a career exploration and preparation tool with informative interview videos and career assessments.
NECC students can create a free account by using their NECC student email.
Massachusets STEM week is organized by the Office of Education Executives and the STEM Advisory Council. STEM week is known as a statewide effort that is made to bring knowledge and interest to all students in hopes to encourage students to envision themselves in STEM education and employment opportunities. For more information on career exploration resources email and book an appointment with NECC Career Services and Internship Programs coordinator Katie Yeaton-Hromada.
