METRIC Zoomcasts
Welcome to the METRIC Zoomcast, a conversation series highlighting the voices and journeys of scholars supported by NSF S-STEM projects at California State University, Long Beach, including PSM-S (DUE-0966039), METRIC (DUE-1833753), and METRIC 2 (DUE-2322416).
In each episode, host Dr. Elaine Bernal speaks with scholars and alumni about their academic pathways, research experiences, professional growth, and the challenges they’ve navigated along the way. These conversations underscore the transformative impact of financial support and dedicated faculty mentorship, the importance of representation and community in STEM, and the value of learning how to leverage available resources to build successful research and industry careers.
Whether you are a current student exploring possibilities within your major, a prospective scholar seeking inspiration, or a champion of STEM education, the METRIC Zoomcast offers insight, encouragement, and a closer look at how mentored experiences help shape the next generation of scientists and industry leaders.
With Hannah Fitzpatrick
In this inaugural METRIC Zoomcast episode, Dr. Elaine Bernal sits down with Hannah Fitzpatrick, a former METRIC scholar and geology alumna from California State University, Long Beach. Hannah shares an honest and inspiring account of her journey from community college student working two jobs to groundwater professional making a tangible impact in Southern California. Recorded on February 23, 2026.
