Mercy University’s Women in STEM Club, founded last year, is making a positive impact by empowering students in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). The club was created by senior biomedical science major Sera Mathew, who was inspired to start it after transferring to Mercy and realizing there weren’t many resources or spaces for women in STEM at the university.
“I wanted to create something that would support women in STEM because when I transferred here, I noticed there wasn’t anything like it,” said Mathew, who is passionate about encouraging others to pursue careers in these fields. Her goal is to provide students with the resources and support they need to navigate their academic journeys and future careers.
The Women in STEM Club focuses on helping members find the guidance they need, whether it’s advice on career paths, information about internships, or just support from peers in similar situations. Next semester, the club will host an information session where students can meet alumni and learn more about different STEM careers.
“If anyone needs help, they can ask us, and we’ll make sure they know where to go,” the club’s founder added.
While currently focused on medical careers, plans are to expand the club next semester to include fields like engineering and mathematics. “Right now, it’s mostly medical focused, but I want to get more members from other fields, like engineering or math,” explained the senior.
In addition to professional development, the goal is to provide a space for fun interactive activities.
“We did some fun things last semester, and I’m hoping next semester we can do even more,” she said. The club has already worked with MedLife and plans to collaborate on more projects in the future.
Women in STEM has also benefited from the contributions of Vice President Merail Salmani and Treasurer Adelina Ahmet, who have both played key roles in supporting the club’s growth. “I just want to make sure Merail and Adelina are properly acknowledged for all the support they’ve given,” said Mathew.
One of the challenges that Mathews and the rest of the board members have faced is promotion, especially since many students commute. “It’s hard to get the word out when a lot of people don’t live on campus,” she highlighted this as an obstacle in the Dobbs Ferry Campus.
Despite this, the Women in STEM is continuing to grow, providing a supportive environment for its members.
Looking ahead, there are plans for endeavors, including a fundraiser for women’s charities.
The ultimate mission is to create a space where women, especially minorities, feel empowered and supported in their STEM careers. “When you see other people who are in the same position as you, it’s much easier to feel like you belong,” she added.
National Stem Day, which is Nov. 8, is encouraged to promote interest and careers in the subject. The Department of Education states that in a pool from 2016, nearly 18 percent of students chose a major surrounding STEM.
Nearly 150 million people ages 18 to 74 are employed in STEM-based careers, which is nearly a quarter of the workforce, says the National Science Federation STEM Workforce report. The median annual wage for STEM careers is $97,000 and starting salary of $64,000, near the top of the list.
Students interested in joining or learning more about Women in STEM are encouraged to reach out.
“We’re always welcoming new members,” Mathew said. “Come to one of our meetings and see if it’s a fit for you!”
Students can contact Sera Mathew at [email protected] for more information or to get involved.
