Elicia Michelle Davis | Episcopal Collegiate School | Middle School & Upper School Science Teacher
Beginning Interests…A passion of mine has always been teaching. As a child, I remember pretending to be a teacher. I have always been devoted to teaching others and learning new things. My first career was in the horse industry. I owned and operated my own stables where I boarded horses, taught lessons, and traveled with a show team. My favorite part of my job was teaching all levels of riders.
Career Evolution…I loved my job in the equestrian world, but I wanted something that offered me more opportunities to pursue my interest in the sciences. One of the first courses I signed up for was a biology course. The first day I was so inspired by the professor that I decided to major in Biomedical Biology. This major gave me a strong foundation in science, and I have been able to teach chemistry, biology, environmental, earth science, robotics and astronomy.
Love the Work…My favorite part of teaching is when my students take a concept and dive deeper to learn more about it. Watching my students develop hypotheses and figuring out how to set up their experiments is exhilarating. This year I am hosting a STEAM Expo for our middle school. Students will design their own exhibits to showcase engineering and technology, scientific inquiry, environmental innovation and scientific literature. Throughout the school year engineers, scientists, and a scientific writers provide insight to our students to help them prepare their STEAM Expo exhibits.
Advice…My advice to young women interested in STEAM is to get involved. Asking science teachers about summer programs, reaching out to local science museums, and searching for science activities are just a few ways that young women can find a variety of STEAM opportunities. Of course, a growth mindset is a must!
These wonder women are redefining what “full STEAM ahead” means in Arkansas. With exciting careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics – each reflects WIT (Women in Tech) and true grit for making the most of every opportunity. Here’s to the powHER of knowledge.
Photography by Lori Sparkman Photography
