YWIB-Metro New York: STEM Career Networking for Girls, May 14, 2024

Young Women In Bio Metro New York organized this career networking event in partnership with Life Sciences Cares New York and Roivant. This unique gathering offered attendees the chance to explore various STEM fields through the art of networking. Participants engaged in speed networking sessions with accomplished female professionals from diverse STEM disciplines, including life sciences. The event was designed to foster connections and provide a platform where young girls could learn directly from the experiences of established women in the industry, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into their potential future careers.

The event began with a mingling session and light snacks. Elizabeth Fassberg from Life Sciences Cares, Abby Beier from Roivant, and Joanna Kaniewska, Vice Chair of YWIB / T Shaped, introduced the participants. Joanna then led a brief activity highlighting the importance of networking and some tips for improving networking skills. Following this, professional women were grouped into separate rooms according to their backgrounds. The girls rotated between rooms in a speed networking fashion. After four rounds, everyone reunited for continued mingling and chatting.

The girls' takeaway was that they had a chance to speak about their ambitions and receive firsthand tips on how to progress in their careers. They valued discovering the range of professions available to them if they pursued science. The professionals' takeaway was how mature and passionate the young girls are. Everyone said it was a wonderful experience to support them.

Submitted by Joanna Kaniewska