“Equate Scotland goes a lot way to making STEM accessible and inclusive for women which resonates very strongly within the School of Science and Engineering where we are committed to making STEM inclusive.” explains Dr Margi Vilnay, director for public engagement and outreach at the School of Science and Engineering and a lecturer in civil engineering, who organised the student recruitment. “Testimony to our commitment is the recruitment of 7 student champions – the highest number any university, let alone school has ever committed to. All candidates were enthusiastic and committed and will ensure this endeavour is a success.”
Shannon McGrath
Mechanical Engineering Student Champion
In taking on this exciting new role, I hope to meet many other enthusiastic students as well as inspire the younger generations to study STEM subjects in the future.
Eszter Somjai
CAHID Student Champion
As a kid, I have always looked up to women in science – although they appeared to be intimidatingly smart and mysterious creatures. Ten years later, I am delighted to be one of them and I aim to show that in contrary to the popular belief we are an approachable and welcoming bunch – without the mystery!
Lara Ranadé
Biomedical Engineering Student Champion
I find this role deeply important due to the lack of knowledge and opportunity for women as they try to entire the STEM field.
Rebecca Mitchell
Civil Engineering Student Champion
As a student champion I hope to help create a community in which women in STEM can feel supported and empowered throughout their degree - building a fantastic network of female professionals and opportunities which we can all learn from and share.
Skye Kirwan
Computing Student Champion
I hope to empower women studying STEM at Dundee by advocating for positive change and promoting a fun, supportive community.
Lara Janiurek
Physics Student Champion
I’m excited to apply my passion for establishing gender equality in STEM fields to help empower and encourage women learning at the university!
Pilar Duque
Mathematics Student Champion
My name is Pilar Duque and I am a 4th year Mathematics student. Studying maths has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made, not only because I love them, but because it has showed me that science has no gender and the only thing that one needs to achieve a career in science is to be passionate enough.
As an active feminist, one of my main goals is to be part of the change; that is why I think being a Student Champion will help me not only to improve the experience of STEM women on or campus, but also to guide me to achieve this goal.
Champions
Equate Scotland is an organisation established to promote and encourage the advancement of women in science, engineering, technology and the built environment. Part of their mission is to offer students the opportunity to get connected, enhance their studies, develop skills and influence gender equality in STEM. To enhance this, Equate Scotland have created The Equate Student Network - the only network for women studying science, engineering, technology and construction in Scotland. The School must commit to recruiting, paying a stipend and mentoring the Equate student champions, whilst Equate Scotland provide training and networking opportunities. The students commit to creating outreach activities to boost the experience for women studying STEM subjects and raise the profile of STEM opportunities for girls.