Reflections of a Scholar: Seeing a Need, Filling a Need

Within an unassuming academic hall at Rutgers University, on a damp and gloomy October morning, I sat beside the future generation of New Jersey’s scientific leaders. Alongside us were the state’s current innovators—those shaping the research and development sector by the day. Outside the halls, it was quiet and content; yet within, it was excited and ambitious.

The day finally began as we were given a warm welcome by Alise Roderer Director of the Governor’s STEM Scholars; Anthony Cicatiello, President of the R&D Council of NJ; and Dr. Jason Geary, Provost at Rutgers University, marking the start of the STEM in Government conference.

During this conference, we were able to interact with several panelists, who each represented their own field of STEM within the government–be it state or federal. The story of Mr. Michael Geraghty, once a New Jersey state trooper, was especially gratifying to hear. He demonstrated remarkable foresight in realizing the potential danger of cyber-crimes; whether it be by foreign operatives, or even amongst our own countrymen. Acting on this foresight, he aided in the formation of the NJ State Police High Technology Crimes Unit, and now serves as New Jersey’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

What resonated with me in his story, was how Mr. Geraghty successfully integrated his hands-on skills as a State Trooper, with his managerial position as a director and the CISO. As a Team Lead for the Governor’s STEM Scholars, this is exactly what I strive to do.

However, the real highlight of this conference for me, was the chance to finally connect with my team of STEM Scholars. Once the first half of the day was over and we broke for lunch, our team went to work. As we brainstormed ideas, I could sense the passion each student had for their respective discipline. Yet despite the sometimes contrasting interests, the ideas flowed and were weaved into a seemingly-natural conclusion for a project vision.

Being surrounded by such a group of people further affirmed my own dedication to physics, while allowing me to appreciate how effective governance affects our nation’s research and development sector. It made me realize that in order to truly advance our country’s technological development, her people must work to obtain an innovative mindset that can successfully see a need, and fill a need.

Written by John Palacios, 2026 Scholar

John Palacios is a second-year physics major at Essex County College pursuing an Associate in Science with plans to transfer to a four-year institution. He is founder and president of the Physics Club, where he has organized lab visits, hosted guest researchers, and led semester-long rover competitions to engage students in physics. Last summer, John participated in a Research Experience for Undergraduates at Lehigh University, conducting high-energy physics research that he continues into the fall semester. Passionate about sustainable and renewable energy, particularly nuclear fusion, he hopes to contribute to collaborative research teams working toward cleaner energy solutions.