Professional Wellness as Collective Practice: A Message for Recent STEM Grads
A message from AdaMarie Co-Founder and CEO, Rebecca Tierney
I’m tempted to start this post with “You’ve just entered the workforce,” followed by some tips and tricks for getting off to a good start. But the truth is – in this economic climate – you might still be finding your footing. Maybe you’ve sent out more resumes than you can count. Maybe you’re networking like crazy. Even if you have secured a job, we’re not the only ones hearing the ominous warnings that AI is going to change everything in short order – especially the workplace.
But here’s the thing. You still have to live your life. While it might seem like a flimsy silver lining – the silver lining to starting your career during challenging times is that you learn very quickly that tending to your overall professional and personal wellness is critical to maintaining a positive outlook and keeping your energy strong.
No matter your professional posture, it’s unlikely you’re a manager at this point. But guess who you do manage? Yourself. You are your professional and personal wellness manager, so start acting like it!
Let’s start here:
Build your support system now, not later. Find peers, mentors, and community spaces where you can say, “I don’t know what I’m doing” or “Is anyone else feeling frustrated about…” and receive some empathy. AdaMarie was built for that - it’s a network of STEM women who’ve been there, are there, and want to help you navigate the early career maze without losing yourself.
Ask better questions. Instead of “Am I doing this right?” try, “What would it look like to do this my way and still succeed?” or “If I feel tired approaching this problem in X way, what would Y way look like?”
Keep receipts. Not just emails and wins (though, yes, do that too) - keep track of what makes you feel lit up and what drains you. That’s your compass and usually a good signpost for what to lean into.
Remember, wellness is personal, but it’s also collective. You’re not just building your career. You’re helping shape what STEM looks like for the people coming up behind you.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, seeking mentorship, or simply craving a space where you don’t have to pretend you have everything figured out, we’re here for you. Inside the AdaMarie Professional Network, you’ll find real talk, support, and opportunities to grow without the pressure to “fit in.”
Come build with us. Join the AdaMarie Professional Network.
