The Women in Life Sciences Dinner brought together female students and professionals for a night of information and inspiration. The event featured a panel of acclaimed science professionals including Laura Bridgewater, Tamara Sheffield, Marisa Frost, and Julie Eddington. Letting questions from the students guide the discussion, the panelists shared insights into their personal career journeys, offered valuable tips for staying motivated, and discussed the realities of juggling both familial and professional responsibilities.
The atmosphere was electric as students eagerly sat and connected with potential faculty mentors in their disciplines, exchanging ideas and forging valuable relationships. At the public health table, Professor Len Novilla encouraged a young student to reach out to the faculty for mentorship and guidance. She emphasized the research opportunities available to undergraduates, reminding the student that only by speaking up would she be able to unlock valuable growth experiences. At another table, a member of the NDFS faculty engaged students in conversation regarding potential career pathways in dietetics, explaining how internships and certifications could open doors to a variety of roles in clinical, community, and public health nutrition. Even before the panelists began fielding questions, students discussed their interests and aspirations with one another.
The students gained valuable insights from the panelists as well. In response to a question about balancing work with family life, Bridgewater, the current Dean of the BYU College of Life Sciences, shared personal insights from her discussion with a general authority of the Church. “He talked about how BYU needed women in faculty positions. He talked about how so many times our girls know they can be teachers or nurses, but they don’t know that there are many other options that are also available to them, and that I could help with that by accepting a position of authority.” The room remained silent as the students absorbed her words, many nodding in agreement.
Eddington, the CEO and founder of the Center for Genomic Research, agreed with Bridgewater, sharing her belief that it is always best to follow the spirit when making decisions. “Live your life unfettered from this concern about balancing work and family life,” she urged. She went on to describe her love for science, sharing that while growing up she wanted to be, “an inventor like Thomas Edison.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them that passion and perseverance could pave the way for extraordinary achievements.
When the discussion turned towards the topic of self-motivation in an often demanding field, Sheffield, the medical director of the immunization program at Intermountain Health, shared valuable insights. “You have to find your ‘why,’” she explained. Sheffield emphasized that understanding why you do what you do gives you the drive to keep going, even when things get hard. Frost, the head of regulatory affairs and compliance at CO Diagnostics, supported Sheffield’s claim. “You have to pat yourself on the back for the little things you do get done,” Frost shared with a smile. “Because life is not just one day. It’s a journey—so enjoy the ride.”
As the evening came to a close, students clustered around the panelists, thanking them effusively for the experiences and advice they shared. Not only did the event foster meaningful connections, it also reinforced the importance of perseverance, passion, and balance in pursuing careers in the life sciences. With the encouragement and wisdom shared by the panelists, attendees felt more confident in their ability to navigate the challenges of both their personal and professional lives.