Reflections of a Scholar: When the Path Changes

Attending the Governor’s STEM Scholars STEM in Academia Conference felt like stepping into a room full of possibility, surrounded by researchers, faculty, and professionals whose paths stretched across every corner of STEM. As I listened to each speaker share their journey, I realized how rarely a career follows a straight line—each story was shaped by pivots, uncertainty, and moments of clarity. One moment that stayed with me came from Dr. Eusebio Pires, who said he “had always imagined himself as a practicing physician—until life revealed a different direction.” That line felt unexpectedly personal. For a long time, I believed becoming a cardiologist was the only future that made sense for me, and I tried to fit all my interests into that single goal, even when my passion for research kept resurfacing. Hearing Dr. Pires speak so honestly made me pause and reflect—it helped me recognize that research isn’t just something I enjoy on the side, but a space where my curiosity, growth, and sense of purpose may truly align.

From the very beginning of the conference, I could feel how much our connections had grown since the first time we met as Governor’s STEM Scholars. Conversations flowed easily, picking up where they had left off, shaped by shared experiences, ambitions, and a common desire to use STEM to make a real impact. Talking with students from across New Jersey pushed me to think more deeply about my own interests while reminding me how essential collaboration is in both research and leadership. What stood out most was how this sense of community turned the conference into more than just a series of presentations—it became a space for real growth. Reconnecting with fellow Scholars reminded me that progress in STEM is rarely achieved alone; it’s built through the people who challenge you, support you, and inspire you to think bigger.

It’s easy to think of academia as a space reserved only for PhDs and lifelong professors, but the conference challenged that assumption for me. Through the speakers’ experiences, I learned that research in academic settings is shaped by people with many different educational and professional backgrounds, all contributing in meaningful ways. Some entered research through traditional doctoral paths, while others arrived through industry experience, interdisciplinary training, or applied science roles. What mattered most wasn’t the title at the end of their name, but their curiosity, persistence, and willingness to ask difficult questions. Hearing about the long timelines and setbacks that often accompany academic research also helped me appreciate the patience it demands—progress isn’t always immediate or visible. Still, these researchers continue pushing forward because of the broader impact their work can have on science, education, and society. The conversation made it clear to me that academia thrives when it includes diverse pathways and perspectives, and that meaningful research is accessible to those willing to engage deeply, not just those who follow a single prescribed route.

Attending the STEM in Academia Conference at Princeton University offered a unique look at how research, teaching, and real-world impact intersect at New Jersey’s universities. The day began with remarks from Dr. C. Jessica Metcalf, setting the stage for conversations about the multifaceted paths in academia. Professors like Dr. Kauser Jahan, Dr. Lauren Madden, Dr. Eusebio Pires, and Dr. Lauren Seyler emphasized that academic careers blend teaching, research, and leadership rather than following a single trajectory. Hands-on sessions with Princeton’s innovation teams and experts from Rowan University and beyond reinforced the collaborative, experiential nature of STEM learning. The keynote by Nobel Laureate Dr. David MacMillan highlighted the immense opportunities STEM offers in academia, showing how curiosity-driven research can lead to innovation and real-world solutions. The day concluded with a panel featuring Senator Andrew Zwicker and his Chief of Staff Kayleigh L. Lavornia, who demonstrated how scientific thinking strengthens policymaking and why students with STEM backgrounds are essential in leadership roles. Their message was clear: STEM is not just a career path—it is a civic responsibility. I left with a deeper appreciation for academia as a space where mentorship, discovery, and societal impact come together.

In the end, I walked away with new connections and a deeper appreciation for how STEM drives discovery and real-world change.

Written by Pranati Bankupalli, 2026 Scholar Pranati Bankupalli is a junior at Old Bridge High School. She is also a Junior Researcher at the New York Academy of Sciences, where she is developing an AI model to predict compounds in food waste that can be repurposed into biofuels, antioxidants, and medical treatments. She completed a project with Harvard University Global Health focused on advancing genetic literacy and serves as the International Outreach Lead for India HOSA, helping expand global engagement in health science education. Pranati is preparing to present about neurological disorders, specifically the effects of stroke on epilepsy, at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She is the co-founder and co-president of her school’s HOSA chapter and earned second place at the HOSA International Leadership Conference as a freshman. Skilled in PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, cell culture, and spectrophotometry, Pranati aspires to become a cardiac electrophysiologist in the future. She is also an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer, having earned an Award of Excellence in the art form.