"Wow, you are a chemist? You must be really smart!"
 |
| Lots of food colouring in water and a random microscope but no actual science |
Most recently I got this reaction from a female pastor and from a stay-at-home mother- two career choices that I personally think require a vast amount of skill and intelligence. I quickly reminded these ladies that what they did was even more amazing in my books. I think I would be even more overwhelmed if I had to fill in for one of them for a day then they would be if they had to fill in for me. Not to downplay my job but I think many people would be surprised to find that my job involves a whole lot more weighing things, repetitive tasks, and mounds of dishes; and a whole lot less bubbling beakers or foaming flasks with vibrant coloured liquids. (Actually if there are any of the latter something has probably gone horribly wrong!!)
 | ||
| I'd be confused too if you asked me to be part of this picture |
I am not normally one to comment on women's role in science. I don't really think there are many barriers, other than the ones we place on ourselves, to a woman having a successful career in science compared to a man. However I acknowledge this hasn't always been the case. In honour of International Women's Day and my current job as a chemistry technician I would like to bring you the perspective of two current women in science and my thoughts on their thoughts. I encourage you to click on the links and hear what they have to say (the links bring you to an audio file) courtesy of the Chemical Heritage Foundation.
 | |
| Honestly?!? Where to begin.... |
This first talk won me over with her love of hydrogen bonding. I love hydrogen bonding too and it was a major reason why I love chemistry. Someday I shall have to tell that story because it is integral to how I view science and it's role in society especially as to how it relates to my faith. Until I get around to it if you really want to know just ask me sometime- be prepared for a long answer, that is best served with a delicious beverage (I suggest a latte or a beer.)
Like Sarah, I too have experienced being the only woman in the room, or in a chemistry class. But I have also experienced the reverse- there was only one male (apart from the professor) in my university Biochemistry class. Maybe my experience is unique but I think things are changing in this regard.
I want to thank her for her commitment to breaking down barriers in the workplace that might prevent other women from seeking careers in Science and technology. And I have to agree when it comes to a day of work- there is nothing better than a good day in the lab- except perhaps a good day in the field/on the lake. (Hey aquatic ecology is my true love after all!)
Sarah Widder- "We've come a really long way"
I really identified with Sarah Widder's perspective and experience. I too worried about how I should dress as a female scientist so people would stop mistaking me for a student. The demands of working in a chemistry lab make this more difficult to find appropriate clothing than other workplaces: clothes have to be comfortable, fit under a lab jacket, and be affordable so that if you spill strong acid on them and destroy them you aren't going to go broke replacing your wardrobe.
Her advice not to sell yourself short is something I need to work on. I find it natural to downplay my talents and abilities and need to learn to speak up a little more. I too found that my experience and knowledge is valued in the workplace despite my youth compared to my colleagues, and never found my gender to be an issue. In today's scientific world the focus is more on what you know and what you are capable of you are only limited by your own insecurities, abilities, and goals. So for females thinking about a career in Science -GO FOR IT!!! The path is wide open and the world is wonderful so let's explore!
And with that I leave you with some chemistry related cartoons and puns!
