Women in the Sciences

Science, Shadowing, and Singing

"In high school you stick to the basics with chemistry or biology. You don't know what other areas you can study, like brain behavior. It's been very helpful to learn about other places you can go in the sciences."
Kassidy '06

Kassidy '06 came to Wellesley with a strong interest in the sciences. Since arriving, she's decided to make a career in pediatric neurology or trauma surgery, she's developed tight relationships with her science mentors, and she's learning how to sing. That's a full agenda.

Kassidy says Wellesley's strong neuroscience program was the initial draw for her. She noticed not only that Wellesley had a strong neurology program, but that she could also dabble in biology, chemistry and psychology as an interdisciplinary neuroscience major.

To improve her chances of succeeding in her work, the Norcross, GA., native was offered the opportunity to participate in a minority mentorship program for science students. The program, sponsored by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, gives students of color a chance to develop one-on-one relationships with professors who mentor them through their first two years of college. In Kassidy's case, she has been working very closely with Chemistry Professor Nancy Kolodny and Microbiology Professor Mary Allen.

The students in the mentor program meet once a week, participate in panel discussions and workshops and shadow their mentors. Most of the discussions are led by upperclasswomen, but professors do participate. "The program gives you an opportunity to figure out if science is something you really want to do," she says. "In high school you stick to the basics with chemistry or biology. You don't know what other areas you can study, like brain behavior. It's been very helpful to learn about other places you can go in the sciences."

Kassidy says the mentor program also has given her the confidence she needs to pursue her rigorous requirements. She participates freely in class, seeks help from her advisors when she needs it and is comfortable enough in her relationships with professors to engage them in academic and nonacademic discussions.

"The teachers here are definitely your friends. They want to learn from you as much as you want to learn from them. And they have respect for you. They know that if you got into Wellesley, you must have something in your head."

One of the critical things she's learned from her teachers and peers is how to relieve stress. In her second semester she loaded up her schedule with five courses and a lab. Since then, she's learned to slow down and take in all that Wellesley has to offer. Gospel choir is one of her main means of relaxation.

"I've never sung in my life, but by the time Thursday gets here, I'm so ready for rehearsal. It's just such a relief to hang out with people I haven't seen all week. It's taught me to be a follower and a leader."