I remember applying to study at Staffordshire University and praying that at least one other girl would take this course too so that I would not feel alone. However, when I met my friends, they told me that they thought they would be the only girl on the course too, and we laughed about it. This is a common thought that women feel when applying to Engineering degrees.
In one of my engineering classes, I noticed only three other women in a class of around fifty. It was at that moment, that I remembered how outnumbered we were. Rather than deterring me, this realisation instilled a sense of pride, as I remembered advice from Kari-Anee Clayton, a speaker at a Women in TEC event I attended. We must create the best version of ourselves with what we have, to do this we must focus on ourselves and never compare our journeys with those of others. By focusing on our strengths and skills, can we contribute effectively.
Staffs Uni has always made me feel welcome when it comes to being a woman in an underrepresented area. I made a circle of friends both women and men and we have supported each other throughout the years. As I reflect on this, I thank them for the memories including the hardships that we have gone through together as engineering is hard but with the right people, it can be such an enjoyable experience. There are many services such as the Career Connect Hub staff who are always willing to support students through university and job applications. They give us information on job roles, networking events and workshops.
I also like that the Woman in Stem Society was set up by students, as it gives women the chance to meet their peers, network and support each other. Most STEM degrees are male-dominated, which can be very intimidating so societies such as this one are so helpful to women who want to follow their passion.
Although it is intimidating to study a male-dominated degree, I advise any woman who has a passion for a STEM degree to try things that are outside of their comfort zone. This allows us to be heard and give differing perspectives which are important within any industry. If you hear a little voice in your mind telling you that you are out of place or not qualified (Which is not true), then you are probably doing something right as every opportunity is a learning experience, so we should give it a go and do our best. There are positives and challenges to pursuing a STEM career, but a strong network means that we can support each other through the challenges and help each other succeed within our education and job roles.
My favourite lecturer was Emily Raeburn, a mathematician, who taught us engineering mathematics. Her ability to break down complex topics and teach us how to apply them to real-world scenarios was amazing. Almost every student who studied with her agreed that she was an amazing teacher and commended her style of teaching as the reason why they got high grades in the subject.
To finish off, by empowering women in STEM, we unlock the full potential of human ingenuity and creativity. This allows us to create inclusive and equal solutions to the problems that we currently face as a society. Let us create an environment where the contributions of women are valued and respected. And stop discrimination, skepticism, and doubt.
- Nokwanda, Third Year Aeronautical Engineering student at Staffordshire University