The Women in Science and Engineering Program (WiSE) is hosting a series of talks aimed at connecting undergraduate and graduate students in STEM with USC WiSE alumni. Alumni are invited back to share their career path, what helped them persevere, what they have been working on since graduation, and why they encourage students to continue on their STEM paths.

This event is open to the entire USC community.

Please register here.

Speaker: Cassidy Feltenberger

Talk title: Opportunities in Unlikely Spaces: Finding Direction Where It’s Unexpected in Research & Career

Bio: Cassidy Feltenberger is a Ph.D. candidate in Chemistry at the University of California, Irvine studying the photophysical characterization of and chemistries relevant to photoacids and other light absorbing molecules under Professor Shane Ardo. Cassidy received her B.S. in Chemistry from USC while performing research in the synthesis and characterization of organic molecules for organic photovoltaics under the supervision of Professor Mark Thompson. Prior to attending UC Irvine, Cassidy interned at The Aerospace Corporation Physical Sciences Laboratories in the Photonics Technology Department as an Atomic Clocks and Photonics Intern. Her achievements include contributions to several published journal publications, membership in the Liquid Sunlight Alliance (a DOE Basic Energy Sciences Hub), and receipt of a 2018 GEM Fellowship. Cassidy is committed to scientific communication and outreach and has pioneered outreach initiatives within her research group dedicated to promoting STEM interest and fostering trust in scientists with K-12 students.

While building this research background and professional experience, Cassidy has realized that some of the best opportunities for growth in her technical skill set or for her research projects come from instances that seem small at the time. Being curious and adaptable, saying yes to learning new things, and challenging herself to excel in the position she is in have all aided in her progress. In this talk, she will share these experiences with you and hope to inspire you to look for professional opportunities that might not be the most obvious ones in front of you.