Parallel Session Descriptions
Careers in physics
Speakers: Kathryn Grimm, Caolionn O'Connell, Deepika Sundarraman
Are you uncertain about your future path in physics? In this session, we will discuss the variety of careers available in physics. The diverse set of panelists reflect different points in their career and different paths taken. We will provide an opportunity to ask questions about physics in academia and industry, perspectives of hiring managers, and navigating job applications.
Threads of Identity: An Intersectional Approach for Inclusive Solutions
Speakers: Luana Melnek dos Anjos, Maria Elena Monzani, Miriam Moore
Participants will share strategies for promoting inclusivity in their unique spaces. Through collaborative discussions and guided activities, they'll contribute to creating practical initiatives, fostering a collective commitment to positive change in personal, academic, and professional communities.
Applying to Graduate School
Speakers: Pat Burchat, Alex Thomson
In this session, we will address many of the questions you might have about graduate school. For example… What is graduate school? Is grad school a good choice for me? How can I learn whether it is? What are my choices — Masters or PhD? Physics, applied physics, engineering, biophysics, medical physics, philosophy, education, other…? Should I consider taking a gap year to help decide? How do I learn about universities to which I could apply? To how many schools should I apply? What are the components of an application? Who reads the applications? How do I support myself during grad school? Assuming I apply and am accepted to programs, how do I make my decision?
Be a Job-Hunting Boss! Landing Industry Jobs & Internships
Speakers: Betsy Tanenbaum, Carly Wright
Academia has dominated your life so far, but did you know that more than half of physics grads work in INDUSTRY?!?! In this workshop, we will go over the top five things that you will need to do to become a job-hunting boss. Whether you want to gain experience through an internship or are looking at next steps after college, we will give you the tools and strategies needed to tackle industrial job applications.
Science Policy, Equity, and Outreach
Speakers: Lynn Cominsky, Helen Quinn
Are you curious about the role scientists play in science policy? About what role "outreach" efforts to inform non-scientists about your work can play in your career? About how physicists can work to support their institution and the profession to become more equitable and inclusive for people with a wide diversity of identities? In this workshop we will attempt to answer your questions and to show you how attention to these issues can enhance your career experience or even become a central aspect of that career.
Getting involved in research
Speakers: Alex Miller, Nicole Neveu, Elsa B. Vazquez
Getting involved in research can be intimidating, but like many things, taking the initial steps can make the process more comfortable. In this session, you will learn about practical steps to kickstart your search for research opportunities. We will provide information about some different options available to undergraduates and engage in discussions about what a successful research experience can look like.
International student experiences
Speakers: Helena Guan, Chaitrali Duse, Luana Melnek dos Anjos, Marta Nowotka, Bernardita Ried Guachalla
Join a discussion on what experiences international students face during their higher education. The panel will be composed of students from different identities, countries, race, and ethnicity. We will discuss how our experience as international students have impacted our performance in good and bad ways, and how diversity and inclusion benefit us as a whole.
Transferring to a 4-year school
Speakers: Andrea Antoni, Thomas Madura, Luana Melnek dos Anjos, Lillian Santos-Olmsted
In this session, we will discuss how to transfer from a community college to a 4-year school. We will also go over physics-specific and STEM-specific aspects of the transfer process, including course requirements as well as programs, internships, and research opportunities designed for community college students. Former transfer students will share their transfer experience and advice. Finally, there will be a Q&A for the audience.
Imposter Syndrome
Speaker: Shiva Abbaszadeh
Explore the intricate layers of Imposter Syndrome, a universal experience that often plagues individuals with self-doubt and a persistent fear of inadequacy. Delve into its roots, unravel its impact on diverse career stages, and discover actionable strategies to break free from its grip, fostering an empowered mindset that propels academic success.
Creating your first CV/resume
Speakers: Martha Escalera, Sarah Gaiser
Every job application requires a CV or resume, but what are the key components of an outstanding one? Which tools can help you craft a compelling CV/resume? What distinguishes the two? Join us as we answer these questions and many more to get you started on your professional journey. Be prepared to bring your CV/resume to work on during this session or be ready to get started on creating one.
Work/life balance
Speakers: Cleo Lepart, Olivia Long, Connie Miao, Shankari Rajagopal
Panelists at a variety of stages in their career (undergraduate to postdoc) will discuss through personal experiences and developed strategies, the struggle, necessity, and reality of finding work-life balance throughout your career.
Support for students from minority groups in physics
Speakers: Tomi A. Akindele, Boe Mendewala, Olive Eilbott, Alejandra Rosselli-Calderon
Learn and ask questions in this Q&A panel discussion about support for students from minority groups in physics. Panelists are from a variety of universities and backgrounds and will share about their experiences as members of minority groups in physics.
Life in Graduate School
Speakers: Ella Banyas, Gauri Batra, Arya Karappilly Rajan, Hope Lee, Alexandra Mannings
What is it really like to be a graduate student? In this panel, current graduate students from a variety of backgrounds talk about their experiences with research, teaching, studying, and day-to-day living in a PhD program.
Navigating careers in Industry
Speakers: Mary Cirino, Agnetta Cleland, Sanghamitra Deb, Deepthi Gorthi, Lydia Young
Join us for an engaging panel discussion where we delve into life beyond academic boundaries. This panel aims to provide invaluable insights and speak about the training that physics provides you to be able to explore opportunities beyond academia. Our esteemed panelists, accomplished women with diverse backgrounds in industry, will share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs, offering a comprehensive view of what it truly means to thrive in the industrial landscape. Topics of discussion will include:
Career Paths in Industry: Explore the various career trajectories available in industry for physicists, ranging from research and development in various fields including AI and technology.
Innovation and Impact: Learn about the groundbreaking projects and contributions these panelists have made in their respective industries, showcasing the crucial role that having a physics background plays in driving innovation and progress.
Empowering Success Stories: Be inspired by success stories of women who have successfully transitioned from academia to industry. Learn how they overcame obstacles and established themselves.
Networking and Mentorship: Understand the importance of building strong networks and mentorship to navigate your career. Learn how to nurture meaningful connections to advance your career.
Interactive Q&A Session: Engage with our panelists in a lively Q&A session, where you can seek advice, ask questions about specific industries, and get valuable insights to shape your future in physics.
This panel promises to be an enriching session, providing attendees with practical advice, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the opportunities awaiting women in physics.