In 2021, SABIC joined the Future of Stem Scholars Initiative and AIChE to help provide students attending Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) with scholarships and the opportunity to prepare them for the workforce.
This summer, SABIC paired up with 2021 FOSSI scholars, Nina Johnson, Alabama State University; Destiny Brand, Alabama A&M University; and Nathan Brandis, Prairie View A&M University.
All three students were interning at various SABIC locations. Nina and Destiny at the Burkville site, and Nathan at the Houston site. With the internship coming to an end, Nina, Destiny and Nathan wanted to share what they enjoyed most about their time at SABIC.
SABIC: What has been your favorite part about the internship?
Nina Johnson: My favorite part has been learning about the chemical process as a Computer Science major. Also, making connections with people at SABIC has been incredible. Everyone was so nice and helpful; they really treat you like a second family.
Destiny Brand: My favorite part of the internship is being able to meet new people and gain experience in an unfamiliar industry. I'm studying to be a mechanical engineer so interning at a chemical plant didn't sound possible at first. Now that I
have had this experience, I can say that I know more about the versatility of my degree.
Nathan Brandis: My favorite part of the internship is gaining the hands-on experience that I don’t get in the classroom. Synthesizing polymer, learning how to use machinery, using extruders, and using the milling machine are some of my favorite things that I’ve learned.
Final words from SABIC
Janel Dumbre, Academic Advisor/Sr. Analyst: SABIC’s participation in the FOSSI program is very important in SABIC’s pledge against racism and inequalities in America. Through this scholarship, we are able to make a difference in our scholars’ lives with financial support and development opportunities. We have seen our FOSSI students eagerly step up to opportunities and thrive in professional environments. This experience has come full circle as the students have also had a tremendous impact on SABIC employees.
Reid Deason, Engineer, Process Control: The scholars were eager to learn from the beginning and provided solutions to problems well above their own experience level. They’ve made lasting relationships working at SABIC by staying involved inside and outside of work.
We invite companies not currently supporting FOSSI to build their pipeline of outstanding and diverse talent by supporting a FOSSI scholar. Learn more.