As a woman in STEM at Penn State, sometimes it can feel isolating, as it is traditionally a male-dominated field. However, there are many programs and organizations you can become involved in to help break down these gender barriers, as well as find community.

First, there is the Women in Engineering Program (WEP). I started out as an Environmental Systems Engineer, so I was enrolled in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences initially. Therefore, I wasn’t aware of WEP until I switched my major to civil engineering. However, being that I have only been involved for about a semester, I have already found community in WEP. There are so many opportunities to get involved within this program, and I have found everyone there to be super kind and welcoming.

In WEP you have the chance to participate in both leadership and professional development during your academic career here at Penn State. For incoming first year students specifically, there are facilitated study groups (FSGs), WEP Wednesdays, and Women in Engineering Orientation Program (WEPO). I was unable to attend WEPO but have found FSGs and WEP Wednesdays to be super fun and helpful. It definitely has supported me in building a community.

There are also opportunities for leadership within WEP: SWAT (Sophomore Women Ambassador Team) Envoy, FSG Leader, and WEPO Lead positions, mentors, and envoys. I personally was accepted to be a SWAT, so my role will be to provide service, engage in outreach, and develop my leadership skills.

There is also the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). SWE is a nationally recognized organization with both students and professionals contributing to its success. It was founded in 1950 to build a community for women pursuing a career in the engineering field. SWE’s goal is to “stimulate women to achieve as engineers and leaders, expand the image of engineering profession as a positive force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrate the value of diversity.”I just recently got involved with SWE as well, but I love how many different oppurtunites they have within the organization. There is truly something for everyone. One thing I am super interested in becoming more involved in with this group is THON. They have been paired with the Sullivan Family for 8 years, and they love getting to spend time together with them! However, SWE is also involved in other spirit events such as Homecoming and also social events such.

There are definitely more opportunities for engagement as a woman in STEM; however, these are just a few I have become involved in recently. But I am just super thankful to be at a university that has such great engagement, and I hope you can get involved too!