Inclusive Environments: Finding Support When Isolated

Show Notes

In STEMM fields, students and professionals from marginalized populations often feel misunderstood or isolated because their identities differ from their peers. Biomedical engineer Dr. Gilda Barabino often found herself taking roles in which she was the first and only African American woman in her position. At times, it was very isolating. 

In this episode, Dr. Barabino shares how she responded to a lack of mentorship, where she found supportive networks, and how she’s creating inclusive environments so that marginalized students don’t have to face the same obstacles. 

Dr. Gilda Barabino is a biomedical engineer with a background in chemical engineering. She specialized in sickle cell research and cellular and tissue engineering. She also deeply understands the role of race, ethnicity, and gender in science and engineering. Dr. Barabino is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and the National Academy of Medicine. She is currently the president of the Olin College of Engineering. 

To learn more about the Science of Effective Mentorship in STEMM report, and for a guide to implementing best practices at your institution, visit NAS.edu/mentoring. 

Brought to you by The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. 

Transcript

What is The Science of Mentorship?

Mentorship is essential to the development of anyone in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or medicine, but did you know mentorship is a set of skills that can be learned, practiced, and optimized?

In this 10-part series from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, you’ll hear the personal mentorship stories of leaders in academia, business, and the media, in their own words. Learn how evidence-based mentorship practices can help you develop the skills to engage in the most effective STEMM mentoring relationships possible.

If you are a mentor, a mentee, or have a role in mentorship, this podcast is for you.