Lena Clark

When did you know that you wanted to major in a STEM discipline?

I returned to school at the age of 41. I had always been interested in science and especially chemistry. Upon readmission, I aimed high and started out as a Pre-pharmacy major. By the middle of the fall semester, reality began to sink in. I realized I would be close to 50 years old upon graduating from pharmacy school. I realized the debt I would incur during that process. I also understood pharmacy school would be a full-time endeavor and I had a teenager at home who needed my full attention at that time. I decided to back away from a career in pharmacy and chose a major in chemistry. I was made aware of a program (MTeach) that would offer a minor in secondary education for people majoring in math or science, I determined this would be a good way to share my passion for chemistry with others while also providing a decent income for me and my daughter. During the process of determining the pros and cons of a change in major, I encountered Dr. Judith Iriarte-Gross on an elevator. That one elevator encounter helped me make the decision to change my major.

What would you tell a middle or high school girl about careers in STEM?

There are plenty of STEM careers available for females. Do not ever allow male dominance in a profession deter your ambitions. There is room for everyone in STEM. STEM careers are everywhere and they growing daily. With the advancement in technology in almost every discipline, STEM is an ever-growing creature. It is not hard to become a part of it. Just follow your dream. Be involved in what you are passionate about.

What should middle and high school girls be doing to prepare themselves for college and a STEM careers?

Develop good study habits. Read and absorb information about your interests. Research the different STEM careers available. Stay up-to-date on new technologies that can impact careers in STEM. Independently read and research STEM topics that interest you. Become a NERD! Nerds are cool. Don’t be afraid to be one. Set goals for yourself. Do not be disappointed in failures. Use failures as learning experiences and grow from them.

“Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” —Winston Churchill

What advice do you have for teachers and counselors who are assisting students prepare for a STEM major and career?

Don’t put a lid on your students. Encourage them to explore and ask questions. Give them the confidence they need to face this world. Allow them to seek their interests. A good educator will help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their students. Teach them how to study and be responsible for their learning. Let them be a part of the education experience. Design inquiry-based lessons so they can investigate. Invite speakers to the classroom who have  a STEM career.

What career advice would you give to girls if you only have two minutes?

Follow your heart. Pursue what you are interested in. Never let anyone put a lid on your aspirations. Find girls who are like-minded so you can share experiences together. Look for colleges that offer programs geared for STEM careers. Research. Investigate. Explore. Have confidence knowing that success in a STEM career is within reach.