Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of feature stories that highlight diversity on Florida Poly’s campus and celebrate Women’s History Month.
The desire to be part of something bold and new drove Lindsey Schwemmin ’18 to join Florida Polytechnic University as part of its inaugural class of students in 2014.
Her commitment to the University and her drive to make a difference led her to return to Florida Poly after graduation as both an academic success coach and a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in computer science.
“I loved the higher education environment here and before I graduated, I spoke with Dr. (Kathryn) Miller (vice provost for academic support services) and Kris Wharton (director of the office of the president and board operations) about their roles, how they enjoyed it, and how they got into their position,” Schwemmin said.
Just a few months later, Schwemmin joined them as a critical member of the team of professionals responsible for ensuring students have the guidance and support necessary to graduate and succeed.
“We give students peace of mind knowing exactly when they’re going to graduate and give them a plan for how to get there,” said Schwemmin, from Clearwater, Florida.
Her own path to Florida Poly began with an application fueled by trust and optimism that the University, which was still under construction, would meet its big STEM goals.
“I thought it was the coolest thing to be part of a brand-new university, one that would be super prestigious one day,” she said.
Schwemmin earned her bachelor’s degree in science and technology management, which today is known as the business analytics program. Having been through the rigorous curriculum, she says she knows what it takes to succeed at Florida Poly, and uses personal experience to help others achieve success as well.
“My background made it really easy for me to jump right into my current role,” she said.
In addition to specializing in guiding students entering the business analytics program, Schwemmin also leads Florida Poly’s testing services and focuses on the First Year STEM program, which provides an academic immersion opportunity for invited students who showcase immense academic potential. The program includes academic coaching, peer mentoring, tutoring, and campus engagement programming.
Schwemmin said Florida Poly has transformed her personally and professionally, from the day she first stepped onto campus to today.
“It’s helped my confidence and helped me grow as a person,” she said. “I feel — like many students – my weakest points were social and communication aspects, but my confidence levels have grown tenfold since I started this position.”
Schwemmin said although she has never focused on the lack of female professionals in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, she works hard to support Florida Poly’s female students.
Statistics from the National Science Foundation indicate only 29% of the nation’s science and engineering workforce are women, though they make up just over half of the total U.S. college-educated workforce.
“I really appreciate when female students come to see me,” Schwemmin said. “We have some really driven, really great female students and it’s fantastic to see them and help them achieve the goals they’re aiming for.”
Contact:
Lydia Guzman
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
