Scilence S2: 61 Materials Engineering & TRAILBLAZING

This week on Scilence, my guest fell into her career thanks to curiosity and interest in physics and maths.  Her path hasn't been straight, but thanks to internships and a couple of rock bottoms, she found her way to a greater self-acceptance and inner security.  She speaks of the snobbery between physicists and engineers and warns that physics can be very exclusive rather than inclusive. 

Unwelcoming environments stem from insecurity.  In her experience it can be difficult to report the subtle harassment we receive as women in physics.  But, ultimately, the anxiety of unassertiveness pushed her into letting go of what other people  thought of her.  She had to accept herself for who she is and believe in herself; learning to trust herself above others. 

Unfortunately, women are taught to not trust themselves; not listen to their gut and ignore their intuition.   But, through the power of meditation she has found an inner peace, where she embraces her imperfection and failures, rather than fearing them.  

Her advice for women who are curious about STEM is to follow their interests rather than follow a person.  Rolemodels are useful, but not essential for finding one's own way in life, if you truly believe in your pwn abilities.  

Love yourself, be proud of who you are and blaze the trail you've always dreamed of, with or without the support of others.