A Journey in STEM: Overcoming Bias and Finding Success in Computer Science
A Note Before You Begin
I spoke with Char (pseudonym) as part of a project to learn about the factors that help women persist in STEM. As a retired individual, her reflective perspective on STEM and her career was interesting and important to the conversation.
Introduction
Char is a woman who navigated the evolving landscape of STEM through a multifaceted career in nursing, computer science, and education. Highlight her perseverance in overcoming biases and barriers and her success in technical and teaching roles.
Early Exposure to STEM
She entered the STEM field relatively late in her career, initially unaware of the term. Her first significant exposure to STEM came through her transition from nursing to computer science, a field she excelled in due to the encouragement and mentorship of a professor who recognized her potential.
Career Path and Challenges
Her journey in STEM began with a degree in nursing, but her career took a significant turn when she accidentally enrolled in a computer programming class. This unexpected shift led to a successful career in computer science, where she encountered support and resistance. One of the significant challenges she faced was the pervasive gender bias in the industry, particularly during her time working for the government. Despite her technical skills and dedication, she was often underestimated and faced additional burdens due to her gender.
Moments of Success
One of her proudest achievements was the recognition and mentorship from a professor who encouraged her to pursue computer science. This relationship not only helped her excel in her studies but also provided her with opportunities to work in various technical roles, including systems analysis. She also took pride in successfully completing challenging projects, reinforcing her confidence in her abilities.
“Anytime you complete a project successfully, it’s a great burden lifted. The feeling of achievement was incredible, especially when I realized I could do what I thought was beyond me.”
The Challenge of Gender Bias
Throughout her career, she encountered significant gender bias, especially in her government job, where women were often tokenized and relegated to traditional roles despite their qualifications. This bias extended to her experiences in education, where she faced pushback from male and female colleagues. Despite these challenges, she persisted, eventually transitioning to a career in education and freelancing, where she found a more supportive environment.
Learning and Growth
Her journey was marked by continuous learning, from mastering new programming languages to taking on freelance projects that kept her skills current. Even after transitioning to teaching, she continued to expand her knowledge, ensuring that she remained at the forefront of technological advancements. However, her career was eventually cut short due to medical issues that forced her to leave the field.
Advice and Reflections
Reflecting on her career, she believes that having a supportive network and mentors from an early age would have made a significant difference. She emphasizes the importance of patience, resilience, and seeking growth opportunities, even in adversity. She advises women entering STEM today to embrace every opportunity, remain diplomatic in the face of challenges, and seek environments that support their growth and contributions.
Conclusion
Though marked by significant challenges, her journey in STEM was ultimately rewarding. Her story serves as a testament to the importance of mentorship, the impact of gender bias, and the value of persistence in building a successful career in STEM.
