We talked about how to get more women to speak at events, the barriers that women in science and engineering face, and the books we are reading. I have just finished reading The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman. Quite a few of us in the group wanted to read it, too!
As you know, for scientists and engineers, definitions are important. The authors of The Confidence Code set out to define confidence and found a satisfying definition. They interview women who display confidence – women athletes, women in the military, women in politics – to find out what their secrets are. They also look at the scientific research into confidence, from neuroscience to genetics. Finally, they offer steps to improve your own confidence and how to change your behavior.
We’d love for you to join our first book club, not only to discuss a great book, but to help women in STEM feel more confident in their own jobs. We’re running the book club over four weeks in May and June, expecting to discuss two chapters per week. Sessions will be one hour, held over Zoom at different times across the world. We are looking for session leaders who will guide the discussion, using discussion prompts (we can provide some) if needed.
This book club is not only for women. Anyone who wants to read and discuss the book is welcome to join. If you are interested in either participating or leading, please respond in the comments. We’ll be creating a space in the JMP Community for our group, Women in STEM.
I’m looking forward to meeting you at the first JMP book club!