Barbara “Barbie” Lorenzo is an S-STEM Scholar at Miami Dade College. In this S-STEM Scholar Spotlight, Barbie shares what her experience as an S-STEM Scholar has been like so far.
Barbie Lorenzo presenting her research poster at the 2024 AAAS-STEM Scholars & PI Meeting in Chicago in November 2024. Photo Credit: Dr. Elodie Billionniere, PI for the NSF S-STEM Rebooting through Emerging technologies Programs (REP).
This past November, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the AAAS S-STEM Scholars and PI Meeting in Chicago. I was honored to be among only 11 students from the REP scholarship program at Miami Dade College nominated to attend on a travel scholarship sponsored by the National Science Foundation. This event introduced me to the broader scientific community, where I had the privilege of presenting my first research project—an analysis on developing a stepwise multiple linear regression model to identify key predictors of hospital-acquired infections. Sharing my work with peers and professionals, engaging in discussions, and receiving valuable feedback validated my passion for data-driven problem-solving. It also inspired me to seek out more opportunities to apply and refine my skills in meaningful ways.
Through this experience, I developed a stronger sense of identity and purpose as an aspiring Latina analyst in technology, where my passion for data and problem-solving could be directed toward understanding and addressing complex societal challenges, particularly within STEM. With the support of my REP scholarship mentors and college faculty, I sought out and secured an opportunity to participate in the CIMAS/Miami Dade College Undergraduate Internship Program. This summer, I collaborated with researchers from the Physical Oceanography division at NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory and the University of Miami on marine research. This opportunity represents a major milestone in my journey, further strengthening my technical expertise and exposing me to real-world applications of computing and data analysis in science.
After years of struggling to find my path, the REP scholarship program provided the resources, support, and community I needed to thrive. It not only opened doors to incredible opportunities like the Scholars and PI Meeting but also helped me recognize my potential as a researcher and problem solver in STEM. Moving forward, I am excited to continue leveraging my skills to tackle real-world challenges, contribute to scientific advancements, and inspire underrepresented minorities in STEM to pursue their passions fearlessly.
Connect with Barbie on LinkedIn.
The S-STEM Scholar Spotlight series shares stories, builds community, and highlights students and alumni and their S-STEM programs. Learn more and submit your spotlight today.
