Words of Wisdom from Women in STEM

During the Spring semester, the Middlesex College Society of Women Engineers (SWE) hosted a Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) panel, where professors shared their experiences, career paths, and advice for students as women in male-dominated fields.  

The panel featured professors Kellie Anderson, Gail Becker, Claire Condie, Meenu Jain, Josiane Martinez, and Stefanie Rufo. 

When asked what they believe are the most important skills to hone, the professors emphasized interpersonal communication and time management as vital in navigating the science field. 

“Soft skills are necessary,” said Anderson, who teaches engineering at the College. “As minorities in engineering, those who aren’t speaking are the ones who should be heard. Being an advocate for yourself is being an advocate for others.” 

“No matter where you are in your career or education, the most important skill is time management,” said Jain, who teaches Physics. “Besides that, teamwork and collaboration will always exist in the real world. If you are not networking, you are not working.” 

“Don’t be afraid to defer to others’ expertise,” said Becker, a professor of chemistry. “Teamwork and interpersonal skills will get you far. At the end of the day, all you have is your reputation. And that reputation will follow you with or without the right attitude.” 

Some shared their personal experiences and how it shaped the way they navigated their educational and professional journeys.  

Professor Condie, who teaches earth science as well as being the College’s honors program coordinator, reflected on her time in college working nights as a bartender, affirming that there is nothing wrong with working to pay the bills while pursuing an education. 

“Don’t feel less than if you need to work,” said Condie. “I’ve often experienced being underestimated. A lot of us have. Just set boundaries between work and life and listen to the people who are there to teach you. Allow yourself to be corrected by them, not by those who want to compare themselves to you.” 

After earning a master’s degree in biology, Professor Rufo returned to school to complete a degree through Middlesex College’s dental hygiene program. Rufo now teaches biology at the College. She noted that this experience shifted her thinking on what an educational journey can look like, and that differences should not discourage students from achieving their goals. 

“No one can ever take your educational degree away from you,” said Rufo. “Don’t regret your education; harness it to move you forward. Along your way there will be people of all different ages and life experiences. Don’t be intimidated by that. You will get that experience in practice.” 

Resilience and fear were common themes discussed by the professors. 

“Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone,” said Anderson. “Sometimes fear is the only way through.” 

“Don’t be scared of failures. Failures make you resilient,” added Jain. 

“Ask questions and don’t let fear allow you to pretend to know what you’re doing,” said Martinez, faculty advisor of SWE and professor of engineering.  

“Your motivation is the driver, not your comfort,” said Becker. 

As a woman in STEM faced with these challenges, it can be difficult to stay positive. When asked what helps them continue, the women agreed they see a brighter future through their students and offered a variety of advice to women pursuing STEM careers. 

“Don’t get lost by trying to do what others are doing,” said Martinez. “Remember that your differences are your assets.” 

“Always carry yourself with a level of respect,” said Anderson. “Respect is gained in drops and lost in buckets.” 

“Opportunity will knock, don’t miss it,” said Jain. 

“What you put in, comes out,” said Condie. “Just by being here, you are continuing the pathway for every woman in STEM after you.” 

“Don’t let yourself be replaceable, make yourself known,” said Rufo.  

“If you say you are going to do something, do it. Don’t expect others to do your job. Be timely and complete,” said Becker. “But most importantly, follow your heart. There’s having a job, and then there’s having a career. Don’t give up. Keep pursuing because you are the future.” 

The student organization that hosted the panel, SWE, re-launched during the 2024 Spring semester. The organization’s former president, Mahi Sanghvi ‘26, moderated the panel and noted that events like this are important for women “who are still finding their place in STEM.” Learn more about the organization’s re-launch here: https://middlesexcollege.edu/2026/03/student-organization-fosters-kinship-and-support-for-women-engineers-on-campus/