My Journey Through STEM Education #science #education #school

Why It Matters

The story highlights systemic barriers—neurodiversity, gender and racial isolation—in STEM pathways and underscores the importance of inclusive education and mentorship to retain diverse talent. Sharing such personal narratives can inspire policy changes and support networks that improve access and outcomes in STEM fields.

Summary

The speaker recounts a challenging journey through STEM education, detailing early academic struggles, unexpected success in chemistry, and poor A-level results later attributed to undiagnosed dyslexia and autism. They earned a place at Sheffield Hallam to study materials engineering—a program they hadn’t known about but found ideal—and struggled as one of the few women and person of color in their cohort. University helped rebuild their confidence, led to personal growth including coming out as queer, and enabled a transition into industry. Now established in their career, they aim to mentor others by sharing lessons and confidence gained along the way.

Original Description

Engineer Dr Katrina Skerratt-Love talks about her journey through education with undiagnosed autism and dyslexia. She now works on creating unique types of glass capable of shielding astronauts from harmful radiation during space missions.

#science #stem #education #school #dyslexia #autism

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