Meet Jade Donnestad
Jade holding an Eastern lubber grasshopper at the O. Orkin Insect Zoo at her favourite museum, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., USA
Jade Donnestad graduated with Honours Bachelor of Science a degree in Biological sciences from University of Guelph. She currently is a Post Grad Student. In her spare time, Jade likes to travel, read, and watch documentaries.
When did your love of STEM begin?
Ever since I was a child I had a fascination with the Earth and the living things within it. I was a very curious kid, always wanting to know "the why" and I spent a lot of my childhood outside and reading. My mother is an author and she nourished my love for learning with books about science and the natural world. I had a specific interest in sharks and dinosaurs that my parents encouraged with non-fiction books about my favorite animals in my formative years. When I was in primary school I was set on being a paleontologist. For Christmas in Grade 1, my parents (or should I say Santa) gifted me with two rubber Stegosauruses. Since then, I never stopped exploring my love of science. In high school, I attended the Physics Outreach Science Camp at the University of Toronto, where I further enriched my passion for science. Coming from a family of four children, money was tight and I contributed through working a part-time job and babysitting, but my parents always found a way to make sure I was developing my interests and had the tools for success. I am grateful to my parents that helped me explore my interests and work hard in my developing years as they set the stepping stones for my future.
What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?
One of the best parts about working in the field of STEM is that it allows us to explore and innovate the world in many different ways, leading to positive change and discovery. There are endless possibilities in this field and it creates rewarding careers that let you contribute meaningfully to the world. It is a fulfilling career to be in because you are at the forefront of change, growth, exploration, learning, and ultimately the future. It is an honor to have the opportunity to work in the field of STEM because it gives me purpose and I recognize my privilege to be able to explore my scientific passions and interests.
What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?
Some advice that I would give young women interested in a career in STEM is the importance of having a mentor and working hard, but realistically to manifest your goals. Setting attainable and measurable goals is a good way to keep yourself motivated and able to work towards realizing your dreams. Working in STEM can be intimidating as it was once a mostly male-dominated field, so having a mentor and some guidance helps prevent discouragement and self-doubt. Nourishing your interests and keeping true to yourself and what you love will help advance you in your career and life journey. Keeping reminders of why you're pursuing a career in STEM and what inspired your dreams is crucial to preventing the negative thoughts from taking over when you find yourself doubting your capabilities or worth. You are in charge of your destiny, but everyone needs help along the way. Never be afraid to seek out help or mentorship, a little help can make a world of a difference.