My name is Lakya Wyche, I am 21 years old and I am a second-year student at Springfield Technical Community College. I am a general study major and hoping to transfer next year for my Pre-Med major.

My goal in life is to be a cardiac surgeon in my later years. I was happy to have the opportunity to watch and experience the Global Symposium hosted by the STEM Starter Academy at STCC. Learning the different topics, not only from the United States, but also from all over the world was informative.

The issues that are happening right over in the US are some of the same issues that are happening all over the World. To sit and watch the many different presentations from people from different countries fascinated me a lot. I happily enjoyed myself during the program that was held. The learning experience was greatly interesting and great to reflect on as well.

This event about the study and conservation of the Global commons was an eye-opening new concept to me. Dr. Timothy Randhir’s keynote talk was regarding Conservation policies and call for action for mitigating impacts of climate change. I also understood the complexity of sustainable and innovative management strategies.

The scientists from India spoke about the challenges livestock production and Dr. Xavier spoke about strategies in Wastewater management and sustainability. I understood the profound importance of water which she referred to as the ‘elixir of life’. It was sad to see how in the world over, our precious natural resource as water and land are being heavily contaminated.

The speaker from Japan talked about nanotechnology and green energy. The scientist from Brazil, Dr. Mello, presented on Biodiversity loss in Brazil which is alarming. Scientist Sosa from Uruguay spoke about the dire need for changes in human attitude towards plastics. Prof. Hayayumi shared his views regarding concerns with agriculture in Peru. Speaker Carlos from Mexico shared environmental conservation efforts in Chiapas.