As we focus this month on women in STEM, we also spotlight organizations that are led and run by female students in the STEM College. At YSU, three organizations have this focus: The Association for Women in Mathematics; The Society of Women Engineers;Phi Sigma Rho.

Student organizations are a way for students to connect with their peers and faculty and often provide networking opportunities within a field of interest. Students can become involved in the community, travel, and take part in competitions. Organizations with an emphasis on women in STEM are important, as advisor Dr. Alicia Prieto-Langarica states, because “Being a woman in STEM, it is more often than not the case that you are the only one in your classes, or one of very few at any STEM event. This can leave female students feeling like they do not belong. Student organizations that target female students help build that sense of community and help women see each other as peer and friends. These groups allow students to meet each other and form connections to work together and support each other in all aspects of their education.”

Groups like the Association for Women in Mathematics, focus on empowering women and girls to pursue careers in male-dominated math and science areas. They build a sense of community among members through mentoring and social events, as well as outreach to the community. Phi Sigma Rho members agree that bringing women from all STEM fields together helps to create a sense of community. They enjoy community outreach by creating STEM kits for the Girl Scouts and connect female students and professionals at their “Meet the Majors” event. The mission of the Society of Women Engineers is similar, focusing on building female leaders in the engineering profession through academic, social, and professional events.

Female oriented STEM organizations are important because they encourage women in STEM by offering unique experiences with not only like-minded people, but people with varying perspectives to optimize individual thinking. These differing perspectives are one of the most important factors in women-lead organizations. If you would like more information about any of these organizations, please visit the STEM Student Organization page.