The Award that Made My Month

This award absolutely made my week!

For the last 9months, I’ve had a middle school pen pal through Letters to a Pre-Scientist program. I learned about my pen pals interest and reluctance in pursuing a career as a scientist. I shared about my journey doing scientific research, and the work I do now, as well as the many challenges I’ve faced in STEM- from the struggle of trying to get thru organic chemistry to my first day doing research at NASA. It hasnt been easy, at all, but I was happy to share some of the tools that helped me get through, that would also help my penpal.

The program wrapped last month and I was a tad sad sending that last letter, but what a pleasant surprise this award was. Finding meaningful ways to give back fuels me and helps keep me centered- work/life balance at its best!

Letters to a Pre-Scientist- thank you for your work inspiring the next generation of world changers, explorers & scientists. 👩🏽‍🔬

Dear Ms. Michelle,

I’m excited to announce that you’ve been selected to receive a special award from Letters to a Pre-Scientist!

We asked our teachers and students to identify STEM pen pals who went above and beyond this year to cultivate a great relationship with their pre-scientist and inspire them to explore a future in STEM.

The Letters to a Pre-Scientist team is extremely grateful for the time and energy you poured into the pen pal program this year. During another challenging year, you were a reliable friend and a spark of inspiration. Winning this award is evidence that you made a difference in your pen pal’s life. Thank you.

📸 from some of my lab days + life lately