In this episode, Lara discusses how a student’s social background can influence their college and career choices. She specifically examines the challenges of underrepresentation on racial, ethnic, gender and socioeconomic disparities and how these disparities can impact student success, especially in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields. Lara advocates for looking beyond diversifying STEM fields to create systemic changes that bring equity and inclusion and using culturally responsive teaching methods and mentorship to create a better society. Lara urges that we bring humanity and kindness toward students and self when doing DEI work.