When did your love of STEM begin?

As a kid, I enjoyed science and math but it wasn’t until my 20’s that I grew to love STEM. Before starting my degree in Marketing, I spent several years working for my family business where I dabbled in web development and programming. At the time, I was still not fully aware of its potential and how I could combine it with my business background. It wasn’t until I started my Marketing degree and I joined an engineering design team, Ryerson Formula Racing (www.ryersonformulasae.com), where my full appreciation for STEM grew. I was surrounded by like-minded people who inspired and encouraged me to pursue STEM.

What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?

STEM, especially Technology, is incredibly exciting and highly rewarding. It evolves rapidly and the opportunity for growth and discovery is endless. As co-founder of Ripple Studios (www.ripplestudiosinc.com), the best part for me is that my co-founder Sabrina Gomez Vila (www.seeitbeitstemit.com/get-inspired/meet-sabrina-gomez-vila) and I can leverage technology and video games to inspire more young people to pursue STEM.

What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?

You should do it! Be bold, try new things even if they scare you. Don’t convince yourself you can’t do something. Learning new things can be challenging and uncomfortable; they’re worth it.