STEMing UP Spotlight (Interview with Naomi Thomas) – STEMing UP Weekly Write Up 10

Hello everyone, and welcome back to yet another STEMing UP Spotlight! I hope you all enjoyed learning about Sanaa yesterday, today we will be featuring Naomi Thomas. This series, spanning over the duration of Phase III of the STEMing UP program will showcase the girls in the program, one each Saturday! Check back here every weekend to learn more about the incredible girls in the STEMing UP program and what they are working on.

As I said earlier, this week we will be featuring Naomi Thomas. She will be in grade 11 this September, and she enjoys reading and coding.

     Without any further ado, let’s get into the interview!

1. Why did you join the STEMing UP program?

I was advised to join this class by our A.P coordinator, we are consistently receiving emails on possible programs, and prior to STEMing UP I had already receive some about hEr VOLUTION. So, I already knew I wanted to participate in one of their programs, so when I received an email about the STEMing UP program, I leapt at the opportunity to join the program. Additionally, when I learned that I could be taught how to code in Python, it was too good to be true, and I could not pass up on the opportunity.

2. What interests you about STEM?

I am interested in both math and science and have been since I was child. But I have only started learning to code this year. The appeal for me is the excitement of solving a problem, whether these be imaginary; unrealistic ones given on test or real work ones, it explicable, the excitement I feel when I solve a problem. Additionally, I love how it seemingly endless, no matter how much I learn about it there is always something more; something more difficult challenging me to overcome it and augment my knowledge.

3. Why is it important for you that we have more women in STEM fields?

It is imperative that there are more women in STEM, because STEM is the future, and I believe that women should play a significant role in a field that will vastly dominate the job market. Additionally, I believe that women’s input; one which is greatly ignored, will bring light to a plethora of advancements.

4. What do you hope to pursue in the future post-secondary wise?

I hope to pursue a career in engineering, preferably as a biomedical engineer,

5. When did you first realize you were interested in STEM? Explain that experience.

I realized in grade six, I already knew I loved math and science, but after receiving an in class lecture about it I was entranced and I knew this is what I want to pursue.

6. What have skills have you acquired through the STEMing UP program?

I have learned how to code in Python as well as how to work closely with peers over a long term project.

7. What are some things you are working on in the STEM field? (can be inside or outside STEMing UP):

I am learning how to code in Java.

There you have it! This week’s STEMing UP Spotlight with Naomi Thomas. Check back next week to learn about another extraordinary girl in the STEMing UP program!

 STEMing Up is a 2 year (4 months each year) program where young women are introduced to a wide-range of professional skill building experiences designed to help them achieve their goals. The duration of the project will allow participants to build long-term relationships with peers and industry mentors and see their ideas come to fruition building overall confidence and skills.

We are now accepting applications for our waiting list. Please send us an email to request an application. Once you submit your application, hEr VOLUTION will confirm your acceptance in our program by email once a spot will become available.