Zoe, a sophomore at Duke studying mechanical engineering with a minor in mathematics

Sarah, a first year student who is also studying mechanical engineering

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What got you interested in STEM?

I started university as a Theater and Dance Major, and then realized that I wanted to utilize my full ride scholarship for a degree that would give me a stronger foundation and more career options in the future. I switched to Secondary Education with hopes to be a High School Biology teacher, until I secured an internship at Emory University. During that internship I worked in a lab and helped identify a compound that enhances lentiviral transduction. My contributions resulted in a publication in the journal of Gene Therapy, and sparked a new love and appreciation for the process and patience it takes to acquire knowledge and push the medical field forward. I immediately went back to school and updated my major once again to Biology with a Chemistry minor, started participating in undergraduate research, and started my science career.

What made you try out to be a cheerleader?

After 10 years in the science field, I wanted to pick back up a dream I felt like I had let go of in college. I mistakenly thought I couldn’t do both science and dance, and dancing was my first passion. Cardinals Cheer auditions was my chance at living a dream I let go of. A dream that I hope I can inspire others is possible even while pursuing a STEM career.

Can you describe what you are working on?

Most of my day is spent behind a computer tracking data through excel and different software programs. I take the knowledge I’ve gained through my experience managing and coordinating clinical research trials and I review science protocols everyday in order to provide feedback on the feasibility of the clinical trial. Additionally, I pick out the best doctors offices around the country to conduct the trial at.

Why do you love working in STEM?

Clinical Trial Research is important to helping advance medicine and being able to provide more treatment options to patients that go to their doctor. Can you imagine going to the doctor and being told you are sick, but there’s no treatment yet? My work ensures that a clinical trial protocol is well written and conducted at the best doctors office that offers compliant research volunteers that are diverse and will produce good data so we know if a new treatment plan is safe, and how it best works.

How does being a cheerleader help you in STEM?

As Cheerleaders we are literally LEADing the crowd to get excited and involved in the game day experience. That same mindset carries over into my STEM career well. I’m not afraid to be a leader. I’m not afraid to be the only voice heard until I can get the rest of my colleagues  excited about the work we are doing. Sometimes it takes a lot of patience and it’s hard to stay motivated and see the big picture, but thankfully I can confidently show up and lead.

How do you tackle stereotypes of cheerleaders and women in STEM?

I think breaking down negative stereotypes is so important. On many occasions I faced people in my science career that did not take me as seriously after learning I was a cheerleader, and people that would talk to me during a cheerleading appearance as if I had no education and all I did was dance. Understanding that stereotype is out there can only be combated through SHOWING people that is not true. I just calmly explain to those that only think I cheer about my science career and how much I’ve contributed to changing their doctors office visits. For those in science who may take me less seriously, I just continue to show up and work hard and provide a real life example that their stereotype does not apply to me.

Favorite science experience?

Can I somehow make “everything I’ve ever done” my answer? I love when the results of a clinical trial are published and changes the way doctors run their practice for the better. Over the years my work has helped change the way providers screen for Hepatitis C, allowing more people who were unaware of their potential exposure to get screened and cared for early. It has contributed to helping non-insured or underinsured patients get access to Hepatitis C treatment when the first oral pill became available to cure their disease. It has helped educate Primary Care Physicians (PCPs) on how to treat disease that historically would be handled by a specialist, but due to better access to medicine can easily be treated by a PCP. I have helped enhance lentiviral transduction in research laboratories, and also seen families’ lives changed as experimental oncology treatment was a last resort and it worked! I truly enjoy making the world better through science!

Can you give us a fun fact?

I would describe myself as being introverted. I’m very good at being outgoing and “extroverted” when the situation calls for it, but deep down I really want to be sitting in bed reading a book, and learning about something new.

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The award-winning program will continue to be hosted by Miranda Cosgrove (iCarly, Despicable Me) and executive produced by Cosgrove and Academy Award-winning actress Geena Davis through the Geena Davis Institute. Earlier this year, Mission Unstoppable was honored with 16 international Telly awards, nominated for a 2024 Webby award for its digital-first series Stem Loft, and was recognized by the White House’s Office of Science and Technology Policy as the only show on television focused on encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers.

Read the official press release here!

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What got you interested in STEM?

I’ve always had a knack for numbers and a passion for tackling mind-bending puzzles, so have naturally
always been drawn to the world of mathematics. My high school academic journey saw me delve
into the realms of mathematics, further maths and physics, all of which I absolutely adored and had such a thirst for knowledge in. Attending an all-girls high school, the landscape for computing and tech-based
subjects was limited, but that didn’t stop my passion for programming and technology experimentation. From orchestrating household gadgets to interacts with various commands, to experimenting with NFC tags for smart home functions, I was hooked on the intersection of innovation and problem solving. As I looked into my University options, I stumbled upon the field of software engineering, and it was like finding the missing piece to my puzzle. It was a perfect chance to marry my love for mathematics with my fascination for technology, and I haven’t looked back since!

What made you try out to be a cheerleader?

After being a competitive gymnast for most of my life, I wanted to switch things up when I moved to University, and cheerleading stole my heart from the get-go. I love the energy in cheerleading and that extra dose of excitement that you don’t get in gymnastics. There’s also nothing quite like the camaraderie of being part of a cheer squad, so the team element is definitely a big plus for me. I’ve found my groove as both a tumbler and flyer, blending my gym skills with high-flying stunts of cheer. I also love the rush of competing in massive venues, performing to huge roaring crowds.

Can you describe what you are working on?

I study software engineering, which covers everything from computer hardware to AI to web development, but my primary focus is on mastering the art of front-end development and making mobile apps. Lately, I’ve been jazzed about blending my coding skills with my passion for sports, with new cheerleading apps that are about to hit the scene, cool sports shoe store apps, and handy hiking navigation tools. I can’t wait to share these projects with the world very soon!

Why do you love working in STEM?

I love being part of the STEM community and taking on the role of a trailblazer, paving the way for progress and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I am driven by the desire to tackle real-world issues head-on, and create usable solutions with the potential to make a global impact. My cheerleading apps are the first of their kind, and I’m excited to see the possibilities that could be unlocked through the combination of smart technology and the sport that I love. The projects I have in store for cheerleading technology really have the scope to globally improve cheerleading safety, and streamline many common cheerleading processes. I hope to change the sport for the better and inspire others to bring technology to cheer.

How do you tackle stereotypes of cheerleaders and women in STEM?

I love to take on cheerleading stereotypes whenever I can. Being the only girl on my software engineering class, I often get funny looks and judgmental comments from my peers, especially when I show up to lectures in my cheer gear. But I love flipping the script and proving them all wrong. Incorporating cheer into my technical projects is my go-to way of defying the stereotypes and showing off my girl boss side! Whenever someone questions my cheerleader status in the tech world, I see it as a chance to educate. I love spreading the word on how thrilling my field is, and the endless possibilities it offers. Who says you can’t cheerlead and code like a pro?

Favorite cheer experience?

Without a doubt, the pinnacle of my cheerleading journey was clinching the coveted title of ultimate national champion at the 2023 UK University National Championships in Manchester. This isn’t an average trophy, it’s a badge of honor reserved for only one team each year, representing triumph not just in our division or level, but over the entire roster of 120+ teams spanning England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland!

Can you give us a fun fact?

I have a world record, which people generally think is pretty cool! If you google ‘most front walkovers in 30 seconds’, a very little Maggie pops up!

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What got you interested in STEM?

I was first inspired to pursue a career in medicine through experiences with my childhood best
friend, Naomi, who had muscular dystrophy. Naomi planted the seed for my fascination with the
body and its perceived limitations of which I could explore through movement and medicine.
She provided me with early motivation to become an advocate for others, especially individuals
with disabilities. I then decided to shadow within various medical specialties to solidify my
passion for the field. The experience of shadowing a pediatric neurologist, having the privilege
of listening to patients’ stories, problem-solving, making a diagnosis, and treating their
conditions by utilizing an in-depth knowledge of our body’s systems, made me confident that
this was the career for me.

What made you try out to be a cheerleader?

My family instilled in me a great love of football since I was a little girl. To this day, I spend every Thursday, Sunday, and Monday during football season glued to the TV. I have always admired all of the people involved in making football the extraordinary spectacle that it is from the athletes to the cheerleaders. I became an NFL cheerleader to connect with passionate fans
and members of my community, become a role-model for the youth of Los Angeles, and be part of a diverse, inclusive, and uplifting team. Being a professional cheerleader is the perfect way to express my love of football, gratitude for the city, and passion for performing.

Can you describe what you are working on?

I am currently conducting pediatric neurology research at UCLA, as well as shadowing physicians and volunteering at the Venice Family Clinic before attending medical school. Specifically, I investigate infantile spasms, also known as West syndrome, which is a rare form of epilepsy that typically begins in infancy. These types of seizures involve sudden, brief muscle contractions, often occurring in clusters. Infantile spasms can affect a child’s development, impacting motor skills and cognition. Early intervention is crucial. I am presently evaluating the association between infantile spasms and autism spectrum disorder through an analysis of patients’ electronic medical records. I spend most of my research time in the computer lab and utilize EEG reports and software like STATA for my analysis. My goal is to develop a greater understanding of treatment options, the developmental trajectory, and risk factors to improve the outcomes of patients with infantile spasms.

How do the qualities that make you a great cheerleader help you as a future doctor?

There are several commonalities between cheerleading and a career in medicine. Each field
requires discipline, a strong work ethic, collaboration, great communication skills,
professionalism, patience, time management, compassion, empathy, versatility, adaptability, and a passion for advocacy and helping others. My experiences in dance/cheerleading equip me with the skills to think on my feet, care for and connect with others, work in a team, and be tenacious in my pursuit of success.

Favorite cheer experience?

I was given the opportunity to travel to South Korea and meet and perform for service members at military bases. Our goal was to raise morale and bring a little bit of home to our veterans overseas. I stayed at two army bases, Camp Humphreys and Camp Casey. We also hosted a cheer clinic at Camp Humphreys, providing girls and boys with an opportunity to dance. I got to
hear stories from heroic veterans, host a Super Bowl event representing the reigning champions, and connect cheerleaders from other NFL organizations! I have also been gifted with experiences to travel to South Korea for the Seoul Friendship Festival, Japan to teach dance workshops,
Hong Kong for the Chinese New Year Festival, and Mexico to participate in flag-football clinics with the Los Angeles Rams organization.

Favorite science experience?

After spending months gathering data for my research project on the increased prevalence of autism among infantile spasms patients, I submitted my abstract to a neurology conference. It was gratifying to hear that my abstract was accepted for a platform presentation at the American Academy of Neurology annual conference. This honor is not often given to pre-med students, so it inspired me to continue to put myself and my research out there.

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What got you interested in STEM?

Growing up, my career aspirations were quite diverse, ranging from a passion for fashion design to considering a future in law. Although science wasn’t exactly my favorite subject, I consistently excelled in it. The pivotal shift occurred during my ninth-grade biology class where the miracles of the human body captured my imagination. The concept of genes and probabilities became a fun puzzle. I looked forward to going to class each day to talk about how what we learned could help other subjects, current events, and medical breakthroughs. This experience solidified my decision to pursue a career in medicine.

What made you try out to be a cheerleader?

I relocated from New York City to St. Louis to attend medical school, but I really did not know much about the city. I always enjoyed going to hockey games while in undergrad at Cornell, so I decided to attend a hockey game while visiting the med school. While there, I noticed how the cheerleaders engaged with the attendees and how they brought smiles to the faces of those young and old. I decided I want to join the team to bring a balance to my rigorous schedule while also getting to know and serve the city that I will call home for the next four years.

How do the qualities that make you a great cheerleader help you as a future doctor?

Cheerleading has many values that are important while working towards becoming a doctor. The most helpful to me has been working as a team, communicating effectively, prioritizing time management, and leadership. Whether it’s doing research in the lab or working with patients, I am only one member of a care team that’s working toward the goal of improving the health of a patient or making advancements in
healthcare. The ability to communicate, lead and be led, and being more efficient with my time while also respecting the time of others are all things that ultimately create a better patient experience.

What advice would you give your 12-year old self?

Celebrate the small wins just as enthusiastically as you celebrate the big wins. At the end of the day, it’s the small wins that will inspire and motivate you to reach your goals.

What is one fun fact people might not know about you?

I am a children’s book author of a series entitled the I Can Be Book Series. It’s a trilogy that explores the core principles—belief, character, and self-love—that have played a crucial role in my own journey to success. It’s my way of inspiring children to embrace these principles and strive towards becoming the best
version of themselves.

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SciCheers Samantha and Dr. Wendy had another fantastic time at this year’s STEM Girl Day.

This event is hosted at UT Austin by Women in STEM (WiSTEM). The goals of this event are to:
1. Increase pre-college participants’ sense of belonging in STEM, STEM identity, and self-efficacy in STEM.
2. Educate STEM college students and corporate/community volunteers how to be positive STEM role models and engage in STEM community outreach.
3. Provide opportunities for STEM college students to develop leadership, mentoring, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Over 9,000 K-8th graders attended the event.

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Meet the Science Cheerleaders at Awesome Con!

What: Awesome Con 2024

Where: Walter E. Washington Convention Center (801 Mt Vernon Pl NW, Washington, DC 20001)

Booth 203 (National Science Foundation)

When: Saturday March 9, 2024
11am-4pm

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“In a unique fusion of spirit and science, the Science Cheerleaders are making waves by combining pom-poms and particle physics to inspire the next generation of scientists. Wendy Brown, Director of Outreach for Science Cheerleaders, emphasizes, ‘A lot of us are really personal stories of reconciling our love of dancing and cheerleading with our love of science, facing stereotypes, social pressures, family pressures, and all of us are here to show how successful you can be in both and how well they work together.'”

Read the rest of the article here!

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Hi Science (Cheerleader) fans! SciCheer Sydney here to tell you about the UNC Science Expo!

I’m also thrilled to announce that we will be BACK for next year’s Expo!

This past April was the Science Cheerleaders’ first appearance at the UNC Science Expo. SciCheers Christina, Sarah, and I had a fantastic time! We were welcomed by our fellow scientists across all different fields. Learners of all ages stopped by our table and learned how to use binary code to make initial bracelets. Our poms were also a hit and we got to watch some future Science Cheerleaders use them to make up their own science cheers for us!

The event was attended by 7,000 people, and featured 560 STEM professionals, 5 stage performances, and even a robotic dog.

Some of our favorite interactions were with young cheerleaders and dancers, who we got to encourage to continue to work hard and pursue their dreams in sports and their academic goals. Later in the day, we had the chance to take the stage and lead the crowd in a gravity cheer! We were lucky enough to be joined by the UNC mascot, Rameses, as well as some of the Duke Cheerleaders, showing us that even the greatest rivalry can be put aside in the name of science!

Some of the kids in the crowd shouted “again” after our cheer and we couldn’t agree more, we can’t wait to come back to the UNC Science Expo again!

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