ASU has many social clubs, among them is a network for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This includes Women in STEM, Women in Computer Science, Women in Biochemistry and Women in Aviation at ASU.
In a world where STEM has historically been male-dominated, the women who are pursuing these fields are not just overcoming academic challenges and increasing representation, but building spaces where they can thrive.
READ MORE: 'For once': Black women in STEM at ASU
Izzy Montini, president of the Women in Biochemistry club and a senior studying biochemistry, helped found her club because she wished that it existed when she was a freshman. Montini wanted to build a community where women could come together to relate to one another, whether that be academically or emotionally.
"Impostor syndrome is a really big barrier to overcome," Montini said. "You're gonna do bad on some exams, you're gonna get a couple of Cs, you're going to struggle. And seeing that people who are older than you have done it successfully and can tell you that you can do it too makes a really big difference."
Alyssa Brown, vice president of WiSTEM and a junior studying medical studies, wanted to find a community that understood her unique experiences.
"I primarily work around men in my education and in my career. I thought joining Women in STEM might be a great way to just meet more women in the STEM field, because it's a different experience in some ways, and I really wanted to find a community that could support that," Brown said.
Mentorship and a sense of community are a source of encouragement for women — especially when navigating fields that are known to be demanding and competitive.
"We need to be here for each other," Brown said. "If we don't support each other, we don't lift each other up — then who will?"
This sentiment is shared by Krisha Raut, president of WiCS and a junior studying computer science. She believes support networks are vital to a woman's STEM journey.
"If you have support, you know what to do," Raut said. "It really helps when there are 10 other people to guide you through the process."
Raut recalls the feeling when she attended her first WiCS meeting. "It made me feel like there are so many other people who understand me. I can talk to them about anything. I can enjoy myself. I don't have to act a particular way to discuss my problems, which is why I started going to these organizations in the first place," Raut said.
Evelyn Brannen, VP of internal affairs of WiCS and a senior studying computer science, expressed that maintaining a social life while balancing academics is a conscious effort.
"I feel like having your friends and people that are also going through stuff with you help keep you accountable," Brannen said. "A lot of classes can be time-consuming, but I think it's important to remember you still need some time for mental sanity."
Brown said she believes humans are social creatures and that is why women in STEM should not isolate themselves or neglect their social lives while trying to achieve success.
To create a social setting, WiCS has a mentorship program where club participants can volunteer to become mentors.
"That's a really great way for underclassmen to get advice from people that have been through things like the classes and being a woman in STEM, but also just being a student," Brannen said.
Montini shared that every two weeks on Wednesdays, Women in Biochemistry learn about various topics while having fun. They created dopamine molecules from popsicle sticks and glue while inviting experts to share their knowledge in the field.
At WiSTEM, they balance outreach, professional development and social activities. The members participate in activities such as making card crafts for retirement homes, going out to get coffee, fundraising, and in the spring, they will be celebrating the club's graduates.
This group of club leaders agree that the demands of STEM are not always easy, but for that reason, a woman in STEM should prioritize a social life.
"You don't have to be a woman in STEM to be part of the club," Brown said. "We are just a club of people battling for inclusion and diversity in STEM, and if you support that, no matter your major or background or identity, we welcome you with open arms."
Edited by Sophia Ramirez, Abigail Beck and Natalia Jarrett.
Reach the reporter at mmart533@asu.edu.
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MJ is a freshman studying computer science and journalism and mass communication. This is her first semester with The State Press. She has also worked on her high school newspaper.
