The CSTL is proud to work with the next generation of Science and Math educators, as well as students who enter the vocational world in whatever industry they choose. We checked in with one of our alumni to see what she is doing after her time with the Center at NAU.
Meet Victoria Heimink, 2017 graduate from NAUTeach in Chemistry.
What are you up to nowadays Victoria?
I work in cannabis cultivation for a local dispensary. I have used my science degree in working with pathogen control and pest management within the grow. During my time at the facility I have worked in many positions and quickly moved up in ranks!
That’s great! Love to see that your science degree is working to your advantage. How did CSTL programming set you up for success post-grad?
One of the biggest ideas I have used in my careers is how to build relationships and how those relationships are what make management easy. Not only did I have success in classroom management in the inner city when I was still teaching- but it has proved to be one of the most valuable skills I have learned in life. I also educate within my job frequently and am constantly using my teaching tool box to make my job in Cannabis more efficient and affective.
Could you share one fond memory or experience from your time with the CSTL or NAU?
One of my first lessons my freshman year with Scott Fray and Jo’el Johanson was a perfectly designed inquiry based lesson to teach inquiry based lessons. (They were great at using the content within the lesson to teach the content- quite beautiful) but Dave Thompson came in with an Axe and a trench coat claiming he was trying to find Louie the Lumberjack. That lesson inspired me to write many engaging lessons like it….it was so fun and wild I wont forget it for the rest of my life.
What a memory, thank you Victoria! All of us at the CSTL wish you the best of luck with your career and efforts.
Keep a look out for continued alumni spotlights on the CSTL’s webpage or on CSTL social media accounts. We’re on Twitter: @cstlnau Instagram: @nau_cstl and Facebook: @naucstl and @NAUTeach. Also find us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cstl-nau/