Empowering Women in STEM Through Shared Experiences

College isn’t just about learning—it’s about building relationships and expanding your network. What better way to start than by connecting with the women professors driving research and innovation?

To celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Columbia Engineering and the Columbia chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) co-hosted an event that gave students an opportunity to connect with their professors beyond the classroom. The “Celebrating and Networking with Columbia University's Women in STEM” held Mar. 7 in Carleton Commons was an informal gathering that was all about fostering conversations, sharing experiences, and making it easier for students to engage with the incredible professors shaping the field of engineering.

The event was co-sponsored by the Engineering Dean’s Office, the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Engineering Student Affairs. 

Treena Arinzeh, a professor of biomedical engineering at Columbia Engineering, and Gitika Gorthi BS’26, co-vice president of SWE and a biomedical engineering student, worked together to create a networking style environment that was welcoming and less intimidating.

“This provided the perfect space for inspiration and the pathway to meaningful connections that can shape both academic and professional journeys,” said Arinzeh. 

Recognizing the importance of open conversations about career journeys, Columbia Engineering Dean Shih-Fu Chang and Columbia University Interim President Katrina Armstrong, both joined the event; Dean Chang gave introductory remarks and President Armstrong kicked off the discussion and shared her own experience as a woman in STEM. 

Armstrong talked about her unconventional career path– from studying architecture as an undergraduate to completing medical school and ultimately rising through the ranks in higher education in leadership roles at the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard, and now, at Columbia. She encouraged attendees to regularly check in with themselves, emphasizing the importance of making changes before reaching burnout. She also highlighted the value of finding what works for each individual. She shared a personal anecdote about how she became known for letting her kids sleep in their school clothes instead of pajamas—a simple adjustment that made hectic mornings a little easier.

“The best advice I ever received was to be yourself because you're not going to change who you are,” Armstrong said. “And if you try to be somebody else, you're going to be so much less effective than just being who you are.”

Building connections

The second half of the event consisted of breakout sessions between small groups of students and women faculty members from across Columbia. With cups of coffee in hand, students and professors–women in STEM– exchanged stories, laughter, and insights. 

A common theme professors shared with students was the importance of advocating for yourself and pursuing what you're passionate about. University Professor and Mikati Foundation Professor of Biomedical Engineering Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic emphasized that when you truly love what you do, it never feels like work—even when challenges arise. Christine Hendon, associate professor of electrical engineering, encouraged students to believe in themselves, even when others doubt their ideas. 

"If someone says it won’t work, figure it out, run some simulations, test for tolerance analysis, and if it looks feasible—go for it," Hendon said. "When you finally get to the point where it works, it’s the best feeling ever.”

In this relaxed setting, conversations flowed and what started as casual chats soon turned into meaningful discussions about careers, research, and personal experiences. 

“This event showcases the magic of Columbia,” said Githika, “and how there is a community that wants to not just collaborate with each other, but grow with each other.”

Lead Photo Caption: Columbia faculty, students and staff gathered in Carleton Commons March 7 for a special networking opportunity for women in STEM. 
Lead Photo Credit: Diane Bondareff/Columbia University