Becca the Volunteer
“A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.” – Eeyore
I am wholly devoted to improving the climate of physics for women and underrepresented minorities, to making physics more accessible to our communities, and to being an effective mentor. Here’s a couple reasons why:
I have never taken a course from a professor who looks and thinks just like me. I’ve taken classes from professors who relate to me, and I’ve idolized some truly terrific mentors, but I haven’t really seen me as a physicist. Outreach gives me the chance to be that person for someone else, and to share my passion for physics with people who may not realize some of the exciting things we do or that it’s a discipline that opens so many doors. (It’s also incredibly fun…)
Science is best when there are different problem-solving approaches, numerous backgrounds to spot potential problems with a collectively determined approach, and space for everyone to be heard and valued. Diversity is science. In order to invest in the science, we must also invest in a diverse, productive climate where that science can be accomplished.
Physics has a terrible public perception for being “too hard”, and it’s become increasingly clear in 2020 that the general public doesn’t easily relate to scientific procedure or value research documentation. We must make ourselves more accessible, increase representation from diverse backgrounds, and be willing to learn from and connect with people outside of our individual comfort zones to help educate others on why science should and must be trusted.
Here’s a quick link to a writeup about one of the biggest activities I’ve contributed to: January 17 - 19, 2020: PghCUWiP