First-generation college student Ivett is breaking down barriers for women in STEAM by providing them with an empowering support system and a wealth of resources.
Supporting young women in STEAM
“I am one of three co-founders of A Girl’s Dream, a community organization that strives to create free, unconventional opportunities and resources for female students in grades 6-12 in Detroit pursuing their dreams in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) related fields. We created this organization our freshman year at UM-Dearborn because we wanted to create opportunities and resources for girls in Detroit so that they are able to continue their education without any barriers.
“Our current project will give 50 girls free STEAM kits that will educate them about the STEAM fields through small DIY activities, access to a professional clothing closet, and a lending library that has various educational books in STEM, professional development, and societal topics (feminism, intersectionality, equality). Girls will also have opportunities to join skill-building workshops and networking events to further empower, prepare and encourage them to continue their education after high school.”
Creating an organization that feels like family
“I am a part of a few student organizations on campus. I am President of Alpha Psi Lambda, a co-ed Latino Fraternity that has allowed me to advocate for diversity on our campus. Being a Latina, first-generation student, I immediately looked for an opportunity to be involved on campus and found that there were not many organizations on campus that represented my background. Being newly elected president, my goal is to create an organization that represents the diversity of numerous cultures where students feel as though they have a group they can call familia (family). Many of our events showcase our culture and value system which others have shown interest in, so it is something that I am excited to expand on. I find that diversity and inclusion are so important in the society we live in today.”
A career that helps improve quality of life
“Since declaring my major in Anthropology, I’ve learned that it is an intersectional field that has shed light on the various issues our society continues to face amongst marginalized communities, education, business corporations, etc. Whether I work in an international company or a non-profit organization, my long-term career goal is to create a long-lasting impact on society through the work that I do. I hope to advocate and provide equitable resources and opportunities to increase educational success and improve living in marginalized communities. Being a first-generation college student and Mexican-American pursuing an undergraduate degree has given me the opportunity to give back to my community and help those around me in any way that I can.”