NSBE - January/February 2008 - (Page 9)

From the PublicationsChair The Pursuit of Excellence By Jessyca E. Jackson E NSBE National Publications Chair xperiencing success in the engineering field builds self-esteem. Whether you are a NSBE Jr. member on the path to college, a collegiate member working toward your bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree or an alumni member competing for professional licensure or publishing credits, knowing that the determination required to complete your journey exceeds that of the average person is a unique confidence-builder. As Annual National Convention season quickly approaches, the theme of our illustrious, annual event — “Igniting the Torch: Engineering in Action” — reminds us that we should make excellence our own in all that we do. “Igniting the Torch” refers to our Society’s “everlasting, burning desire to achieve success…and to effect a positive change in the quality of life of all people.” “Igniting the Torch” is our perpetual pursuit of excellence, a pursuit that inevitably puts engineering into action. Not only should “Engineering in Action” bring about thoughts of transforming static conditions into dynamic ones, it should also stoke our desire to fill the NSBE pipeline by reaching back and helping prospective undergraduate engineering majors, graduate students, professional engineers and postdoctorate fellows. Naturally, there will be peaks and valleys in our journeys through engineering, and encouraging ourselves and receiving encouragement from others is of the utmost importance. Oliver J. Myers, Ph.D., NSBE member and 2007 Region II Fall Regional Conference workshop presenter, has developed a tried and true method for producing excellent dissertations. But his method, aptly named P.H.D., can be applied to those seeking excellence in any area. well on standardized tests, and graduating. It means making a schedule that includes study time, deadlines, checkpoints and breaks. For Alumni members, making workable plans to earn professional licenses, continuing education credits and advanced degrees is important. All engineers and prospective engineers should further their preparation by knowing a credible person who is capable of helping. 2. HEARt Having determination during challenging moments is like trying to practice good communication skills in the midst of a heated argument. It’s just not that easy to do when senses are at their peak. Dr. Oliver advises us to give and receive help and support during these times, and, most important, to practice humility. “As Annual National Convention season quickly approaches…“Igniting the Torch: Engineering in Action” reminds us that we should make excellence our own in all that we do.” 3. DIScIPLINE Discipline involves planning with the end in mind so time is not wasted doing things that will not benefit the end product. Discipline fused with personal integrity means doing what you can to meet checkpoint requirements and taking breaks when you need them to prevent burnout. In these often difficult times of change, P.H.D. is vital, and Les Brown’s quote never seems old: “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” ■ 1. PREPARAtIoN This is an obvious step that is often overlooked and underestimated. Students must prepare themselves by setting goals that include keeping a high GPA, performing www.nsbe.org • january/february 2008 • 9 http://www.nsbe.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of NSBE - January/February 2008

NSBE - January/February 2008
Contents
The Pursuit of Excellence
Using Our Power
The Power of Belief
Saying It Well
Premier Profile: Owen Weston of U.S. Steel
NSBE Protégés Receive White House Honor
Regional News
International News
Fostering Competitiveness Through Innovation and Diversity
'Netting a Job
Why Graduate School?
NSBE Love
NSBE Calendar
"Igniting the Torch: Engineering in Action"
NSBE Golden Torch Awards
The AE Niche
Thinking Green
AE Members On the Move
CE Cover: Rough Road, Fun Ride
Join NSBE's Journey to Mars!
Advertisers Index

NSBE - January/February 2008