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Program at UofA introduces sciences to women, Aboriginals

Article Origin

Author

By Susan Solway, Sweetgrass Writer, EDMONTON

Volume

17

Issue

4

Year

2010

Nicole Baker is breaking a trend. The Aboriginal woman is now in her first year at the University of Alberta working toward a Bachelor of Science degree with Honours in Applied Physics.

In a society that thrives on science, engineering and technology, few students pursue a career path designed for these specific industries, and even fewer women and yet fewer Aboriginals. 

Baker’s introduction to science came when she was in grade six and took part in the university’s two-day CHOICES conference. Six hundred Grade 6 girls were welcomed to the Edmonton campus along with 145 teachers. They were exposed to hands on learning, guest speakers, and demonstrations.

The program continues today.

Baker also experienced the Summer Research Program, which helped clarify her interests in terms of specific subject matter in regards to science. The program provides six weeks of hands-on research experience for 60 Grade 11 female and male students from across Canada, as well as those who hold Canadian citizenship south of the border. Students are matched with faculty members based on interest and participate in the research being undertaken by the faculty.

“(Through the programs) I could see if I wanted
to do engineering and if I really want to get hands on experience in science and technology... and research,” said Baker.

In 1982, the university established the Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology (WISEST) program, which caters to a variety of school age groups, mostly female.

“The program is here to support women, encourage them in their awareness of science, engineering and technology.  Encourage them in a sense of hoping that they’ll find it is something they are interested in and something that they can do, and then that they will pursue it eventually,” said Grace Ennis, WISEST coordinator.

The program provides opportunities to students to participate in outreach activities that will promote interest and help them recognize the importance of technology and science as careers.

“We aim to serve the needs at various levels of development... the underlying ground for all the activities is that it is important for the young women to experience science,” said Ennis.

SET is another program offered by the university. This one day conference caters to females in high school.  Many of the participants come from various regions of the province.  As well as the hands on learning and lectures, these young ladies are introduced to many women, who are role models, either graduate students or women who work within the industry.

 The future of WISEST is to branch out and encourage non-traditional groups, such as the Aboriginal community, said Ennis.

 “Believe in yourself and do what you truly want to do, try not to be swayed by what other people think or how the norm is- break down the barriers,” said Baker.

For more information, visit www.wisest.ualberta.ca.