Rose Soskind - 2013 SPIE Women in Optics Planner
Who or what inspired you to work in science/engineering?
I have always had an interest in science because it interconnects with daily life and plays an important role in various fields and applications. I have been fortunate to have wonderful teachers who have helped further my interest in math and science, including Mrs. Carol Reichmann and Mrs. Karen Galley during high school, and Professor Edward Tavss in college. My interest in optics and photonics research was inspired by my father, who introduced me to the field and always stressed the importance of education.
What are the primary responsibilities of your current job?
As a college student, my primary responsibilities are working towards the completion of my education, and opening my horizons in numerous subjects relevant to my studies. Summer break is the time to explore real job environments. The summer before freshman year, I interned at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. There I developed computer programs, which aided in data retrieval from an array of spectrometers that I used to analyze the chemical composition of plasma emissions. This past summer, I participated in the Rutgers University Aresty Summer Science Program, where I performed research in polymer chemistry to analyze data using spectroscopic and light scattering techniques. Once a year I attend my favorite SPIE conference, Optics+Photonics in San Diego, where I present my photonics research results to the SPIE community.
Do you have advice for young women considering a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)?
Girls don't have to wait until college to start a career in STEM. They should start research when they are comfortable, and should not be afraid to try new things. From personal experience, becoming an SPIE student member during high school allowed me to gain valuable research skills, as well as meet and become friends with SPIE members and staff.