Women in STEM
Segment #15 from University of Utah
Transcript
Let’s get to know Tayla, a third year student majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry and pediatric clinical research. Tayla is gonna share how The U has supported her and other female identifying students as they pursue degrees and careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It’s your turn Tayla.
– Being a first-generation college student, I worked extremely hard in high school and applied for many scholarships and the work paid off. Now I’m studying my passions of STEM and medicine. I attended many summer programs and events at the University of Utah and fell in love with the environment and support seen throughout the faculty and students. I had the opportunity to be a part of program ACCESS, a first-year program for incoming freshmen females, majoring in STEM, and for those who demonstrate a passion for it. Some of my favorite memories from the ACCESS summer experience were hiking and learning more about biological research, going to a star party late at night to gaze at the night sky and having guest speakers from each discipline at a Capstone debate where we applied our knowledge of what we learned from our summer experience. Aside from the STEM focus event, it was fun to go out, to eat with friends and as well as going the movies. From this experience, it helped strengthen my love for STEM and allowed me to have a support system of other like-minded and smart women in STEM. These fields continue to be male dominated, but access means you’re never alone. The university wants us to succeed. With the support of my peers around me and how willing the professors are wanting to help, I’m continuing to excel in my classes as well as having fun with my friends. Back to you, Alex.
– Appreciate it, Tayla. It sounds like you’ve struck the perfect balance between succeeding in rigorous coursework and enjoying the unique programs The U has to offer. Thank you for sharing your perspective with all of us and for reminding us to take the time to stop and gaze at the stars.