A Conversation with …

… Jenna about her research and why she is involved with STEM outreach.

What is your current position?

I’m currently a PhD student in Environmental Engineering at Yale.

Where did you go to college?

I majored in chemical engineering at Brown University.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Montreal, Canada.

What was your favorite subject in high school?

Music and chemistry

Who is your STEM role model?

I’m not sure I can pick one! I had several really awesome science and math teachers in high school who inspired me to pursue my interest in STEM, both in and out of the classroom.

What is the focus of your research?

I study the composition of atmospheric particulate matter (tiny bits of solid or liquid suspended in the air), to learn more about the types of chemicals that make up particulate matter and how they may impact human health and the environment.

What is the coolest part of your job?

I do a lot of fieldwork in my research, so my research involves traveling to new places and meeting lots of new people!

Why did you pick your major?

I chose to study chemical engineering as an undergraduate student because I really loved chemistry, physics, and math, and thought that chemical engineering would be the best way to combine my interests!

What is your favorite part about doing STEM outreach?

I love doing STEM outreach because I love to help middle and high school students learn about the exciting world of science that exists beyond the pages of their textbooks or beyond the walls of their science classrooms.

What is a fun fact about you?

I am a long distance runner and started running marathons in graduate school. I have run 2 marathons at Walt Disney World–the most fun place to run races!

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