Female scientists face future challenges in academic careers
Raquel Paulino
Issue date: 11/19/09 Section: News
About 30 percent of Smith students are science majors, a significant number of students dedicated to the field. However, overall, the country is facing a shortage of female scientists, causing researchers to push colleges and federal agencies for change.
According to a report from researchers at the University of California - Berkeley, women with Ph.D.s in the sciences are "leaking out" of the tenure pipeline. Their research indicates that fewer female science graduates pursue academic careers, and that they are more likely than their male counterparts to leave academic institutions before earning tenure, potentially harming the future global leadership position of the U.S.
"The more voices there are, the better for solving problems in the sciences," geology professor Amy Rhodes said.
Rhodes believes that today, there are more opportunities for women scientists. Smith offers a number of opportunities for students in the sciences, Rhodes noted.
The Mellon Mays Fellowship supports women seeking higher education, particularly women of color. The Achieving Excellence in Math, Engineering and Sciences program is another opportunity that was designed to expand the community of diverse students in conducting scientific research on campus.
Rhodes also emphasized the strong peer-mentoring program which students of color take advantage of during their first year.
"It's fulfilling and makes me feel like I am contributing to Smith," said Pauline Musa '12 of her experience as a mentor.
"My mentee can call me or text me with whatever question. I think it's important to help the first-years adjust to Smith, especially when it comes to majoring in the sciences," she continued.
Rhodes admits that sciences at Smith can be demanding, especially when it comes to lecture classes with labs but argues that the labs are the best way for students to learn through experience.
She stressed the ability of students to persevere during tough situations in their fields, noting that as long as students enjoy their studies, the problems add to the excitement of their efforts.
According to a report from researchers at the University of California - Berkeley, women with Ph.D.s in the sciences are "leaking out" of the tenure pipeline. Their research indicates that fewer female science graduates pursue academic careers, and that they are more likely than their male counterparts to leave academic institutions before earning tenure, potentially harming the future global leadership position of the U.S.
"The more voices there are, the better for solving problems in the sciences," geology professor Amy Rhodes said.
Rhodes believes that today, there are more opportunities for women scientists. Smith offers a number of opportunities for students in the sciences, Rhodes noted.
The Mellon Mays Fellowship supports women seeking higher education, particularly women of color. The Achieving Excellence in Math, Engineering and Sciences program is another opportunity that was designed to expand the community of diverse students in conducting scientific research on campus.
Rhodes also emphasized the strong peer-mentoring program which students of color take advantage of during their first year.
"It's fulfilling and makes me feel like I am contributing to Smith," said Pauline Musa '12 of her experience as a mentor.
"My mentee can call me or text me with whatever question. I think it's important to help the first-years adjust to Smith, especially when it comes to majoring in the sciences," she continued.
Rhodes admits that sciences at Smith can be demanding, especially when it comes to lecture classes with labs but argues that the labs are the best way for students to learn through experience.
She stressed the ability of students to persevere during tough situations in their fields, noting that as long as students enjoy their studies, the problems add to the excitement of their efforts.
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