How do you talk about ARCS?
Do you have an "elevator pitch" that works for you?
Here is how I usually introduce ARCS:
“I volunteer for a nonprofit that helps OHSU, OSU, and UO recruit top scholars to their STEM PhD programs. As a former science teacher, I believe that Science is the Solution. These future scientists will solve some of our most pressing challenges (I might mention climate change, AI, or potential future pandemics). They will make the world a better place for all of us.”
I invite you to use this template for your elevator pitch. Personalize it in whatever way works for you; we all come to ARCS for our own reasons. Be prepared to articulate your personal connection when the moment is right.
“This is why ARCS is near and dear to my heart:
It requires hard work and dedication to earn a PhD, which means that students must postpone the rewards their peers in other careers enjoy.
As the wife of a retired doctor who was once a medical student, I get it. Having some disposable income and a cheerleading section would have made a huge difference to our mental outlook during those years.
As a former high school science teacher who focused a lot of energy on training and encouraging students to enter STEM careers, I want to do all I can to help ease their path both financially and emotionally.”
A la Carte Additions:
- If I'm speaking to someone interested in women in business, I might insert the phrase "women-founded, women-led nonprofit" into my introduction.
- If the audience includes OHSU, UO, or OSU alums, I might talk about enhancing the value of a degree from one of these universities by attracting scholars who are likely to make a mark on science in a big way—maybe mention that Neil deGrasse Tyson is a former ARCS scholar!
- If the audience includes business-focused individuals, I'll explain how ARCS supports Oregon businesses by attracting brainpower to our state for training and job force expansion.
- If they seem interested in becoming an ARCS member, I will share one or more of the following elements (and follow up with a link to the New Member Application page on the website!):
- “We are part of a national organization with 15 chapters.”
- “Members have the opportunity to develop close, personal relationships with other ARCS members and ARCS scholars, the scientists of tomorrow.”
- “Members can network with other accomplished members who represent a variety of careers/fields and to use/develop/grow leadership skills at both the chapter and national levels.”
- “Members have access to science and scientists at the cutting edge in a variety of fields.”
