Women in STEM at CMU

Hi! My name is Katherine, and I’m a fourth-year student studying Materials Science and Engineering with an additional major in Biomedical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon. In high school, I discovered my love for chemistry and math, which sparked my interest in pursuing a career in STEM. At the same time, I couldn’t help but notice how few girls were in my advanced STEM classes. This became even more apparent during remote learning, when connecting with classmates felt almost impossible. When I started at CMU, I was eager to find a supportive community of women in STEM — and that’s when I discovered the CMU Society of Women Engineers (SWE).

During Orientation Week, I attended one of SWE’s events and was able to speak with so many upperclassmen in my major. They shared tips on which classes to take, how to navigate college life and how to make the most of my first year. Everyone was so friendly and encouraging that I immediately knew SWE was a community I wanted to be part of throughout my college journey.

Since then, I’ve had so many memorable experiences through SWE that have helped me grow as a woman in STEM. One of the highlights has been attending the national SWE conference every year. It’s been amazing to participate in one of the largest STEM career fairs and hear from inspiring women in engineering. The talks have covered everything from dealing with imposter syndrome to prioritizing self-care and addressing gender gaps in STEM. Every conference leaves me feeling inspired and more confident about my place in this field.

CMU has also provided some truly unique and fun experiences as an engineering student. One of my favorite events is the annual College of Engineering Ball. It’s an evening filled with a three-course meal, incredible student performances (like Bhangra, Korean Pop Dance Club and Tricking) and, of course, plenty of dancing! Events like this remind me how special it is to be part of a community that works hard but also knows how to celebrate together.

If you’re an aspiring woman in STEM, my biggest piece of advice: don’t be afraid to ask for support! Finding a mentor — whether it’s someone in college, your field or beyond — can make a huge difference. They can help you figure out your classes, explore career opportunities or even just be someone to talk to when things get overwhelming. For me, being a woman in STEM at CMU has been an incredibly rewarding journey, and I hope you find a community that makes you feel just as supported and empowered!