Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University's Department of Chemistry will hold its annual Chemistry Careers Panel, titled "From EMU to Industry," on Monday, Oct. 27. The event is scheduled from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in room 152 of the Mark Jefferson Science Complex and aims to connect current students with alumni who have pursued careers in various scientific fields.

The panel, now in its second year, was created to help students understand the range of career paths available with degrees in chemistry and biochemistry. It takes place after National Chemistry Week and continues the university’s practice of facilitating direct interaction between students and graduates working in research, industry, and related areas.

“This event allows our students to see the many different directions a degree in chemistry or biochemistry can take them,” said Steven Backues, professor of chemistry at EMU. “It’s more than just hearing success stories; it’s exploring possibilities and getting to talk to those who have taken this path before.”

Panelists for this year include Hayley Cawthon, senior technical reviewer at National Sanitation Foundation International; Sarah Fezzey, a retired industry expert who most recently worked at Sika USA; and Sue Foltin, a biomedical researcher with Sarstedt.

After the panel discussion, there will be a roundtable reception called "From Conversation to Connection" from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Students will have the opportunity for one-on-one conversations with alumni and representatives from companies such as Cayman Chemical, BASF, and Eradivir. There will also be tables for discussions about medical school and doctoral programs, academic research careers, as well as advice from EMU’s advising and career development offices. The Chemistry Club will provide live demonstrations during the event.

Attendance is free and open to the public. Students can earn Learning Beyond the Classroom credit by participating.

According to Eastern Michigan University officials, the Chemistry Careers Panel supports the institution's focus on preparing students for employment through mentorship opportunities and professional engagement initiatives.

For more information about the event, interested individuals can contact Professor Backues at sbackues@emich.edu.

Eastern Michigan University was established in 1849 and is currently Michigan's second-oldest public university. The institution serves over 12,000 students across undergraduate through doctoral levels in various disciplines including arts, sciences, business, education, engineering and technology, health and human services. EMU offers more than 300 academic programs through its multiple colleges. The university emphasizes applied education through hands-on learning experiences and partnerships with industry.

Further details about Eastern Michigan University are available on its official website.