Voices that Matter - a Conversation with Ivy

Ivy Andreula, a STEM E3 participant and busy middle schooler, took time to talk with us about her experience with YWCA’s STEM program. Listen in as we discussed how the program is supporting young women today, and empowering them to have a future full of possibilities.

YWCA: What inspired you to join the STEM E3 program?

Ivy: I wanted a job in STEM since 3rd grade, right before the COVID-19 pandemic. I started exploring job options to help the world, and I was inspired by STEM. Right now, I want to be an environmental engineer.

YWCA: What was your favorite part of the STEM program and is there a specific project or activity that stood out to you?

Ivy: I loved learning new things and expanding on the subjects I already knew. I remember I did the STEM workshop at CU’s Williams Village, and I loved when we broke into groups and did this activity similar to Shark Tank. The groups would have to create a whole presentation and pitch on something that would help in everyday life. We even got these large whiteboards for brainstorming, and as we presented, our slideshow would be projected onto a smartboard in front of a "panel." There were some great, imaginative, and extremely fun ideas that I saw, and I think that activity benefited everyone there.

YWCA: What new skills or knowledge did you gain from the experience and how do you think it may influence or help you in the future?

Ivy: I learned a lot of skills, like how to remove a (fake) brain tumor with some devices (the people at Medtronic said I should be a brain surgeon!), how to set up a surgery machine, and how to code. I also gained more imagination and innovativeness with how much these events made me think. I believe this will help me on my path to getting an important degree, as well as helping me in some classes.

YWCA: Why do you think programs like these STEM programs are important for girls and young women?

Ivy: I think they're important for young women because they can meet women established in the STEM industry, and be inspired by them. These programs allow girls to set free their imagination, and create so many amazing things. They also teach girls about important jobs offered in STEM, and the amazing things that an individual can do that can seem almost impossible.

YWCA: How has your participation in the program influenced your dreams or career aspirations?

Ivy: I knew that I wanted a career in STEM for a while, beginning with wanting to be a Marine scientist in 3rd grade. Later, when I went to my first YWCA STEM program in 6th grade (it was the Google one), I started to think of the benefits of engineering. It was another job that could help change the world, and with science. This prompted me to look more into engineering degrees, and I found environmental engineering. It uses science, which I am good at, and math, which I love and am also good at. It also mainly focuses on the environment, which I am passionate about, and helps change the world for the better. My participation in this program has deeply influenced my aspirations for my future.

Read more about the YWCA’s STEM E3 program.