Autumn Gilbert’s journey to UX Research grew from a deep love of anthropology to discovering UX on the job, she carved out a career centered around curiosity, empathy, and advocacy. In our latest Mirrors interview, Autumn opens up about career pivots, mental health, and finding power in asking questions.

Madhulika Rai's path to science wasn't smooth but shaped by resilience, interdisciplinary curiosity, and deep family roots. From biology classrooms in India to research labs in Spain and the U.S., she's carving her place in the world of metabolic research.

Meet Adrianna Torres, Associate Scientist at Fujifilm Irvine Scientific. Discover her inspiring journey from creative dreamer to molecular biologist, why she left her PhD program, and how she thrives in STEM while prioritizing mental health and work-life balance.

The AdaMarie Mirrors reflect the many winding paths to success—real stories of real women, so you can see yourself in them. This month, we welcome Lauren Wallace, an Industrial Engineer at X-Energy, whose career journey is a testament to adaptability and leadership. Read on to learn how she balances ambition, leadership, and personal fulfillment.

Associate Scientist Frankie Foltz shares about overcoming challenges, finding community, and finding purpose where you are.

Important words of wisdom from Clinical Research Assistant Tehya Blanks: “Never let the label “nontraditional student” discourage you. There is no set timeline for achieving your goals.”

Solution Engineer Raashi Bhatnagar offers her advice to the AdaMarie community: never lose the desire to keep learning!

Molecular Biologist Research Assistant and Science Communicator Melanie Byrd shares her story of conquering the academic challenges she faced transitioning from a small town with limited educational opportunities to a giant state university setting.

Orthopaedic Research PhD Student Gillian Choquette reminds us that one stressful workplace experience shouldn’t deter us from pursuing our lifelong passion for science!

Environmental Scientist Katie Cooper reflects on her story of self-discovery and growth, emphasizing the importance of resilience, self-care, and pursuing one’s passions fearlessly.

Microbiologist - and another one of our Student Ambassadors! - Casey Meili reveals her lifelong love affair with science. From dreaming of dinos and busting myths with Jamie and Adam to diving headfirst into the microbial world, she’s let curiosity be her guide!

Through perseverance and a commitment to growth, computer scientist and junior at University of Houston’s Clear Lake Hailey Thomas tells her story: the importance of balancing passion with proficiency while pursuing a career in STEM.

Mesoamerican archaeologist Gabriela Montero offers invaluable insight into the transformative power of venturing beyond our comfort zones and inspires us to pursue our passions boldly and authentically!

Conservationist Cailynne Graham explains how she nurtures her passion for conservation by transforming challenges into lessons and making a positive impact on our planet's future.

Sr. Product Manager Olivia Holmes goes 'Meta' as she reflects on her career journey!

Gauri is a Product Analyst and Management Intern at GEN and AdaMarie while pursuing her master's in Information Management at the University of Washington.

Clinical Engineer Katie Ogg shares her non-conventional path to finding the right company for her: one that prioritizes a work life balance AND her love of dogs.

Executive Recruiter in Biotech & Life Sciences, Suzanne Zebedee reminds us that we don’t have to have it 100% figured out!

Looking for some super cool, awesome, and engaging STEM professionals to follow on Instagram? Here’s a few of our favorites right now…

Read all about physical therapist Maryam Javanbakht’s zigzagging journey, from dreaming of PT to unexpected research adventures, and how life's twists have led to a rewarding career.