Meet Sophia Fairweather

Sophia in her element.

Sophia Fairweather is currently attending Victoria School of the Arts public school in Edmonton, Alberta. She currently specializing in math and performing arts, in 8th grade. In her spare time, Sophia likes creating ideas, and sharing knowledge and stories. She also loves drawing, hanging out with her dog, and hiking/traveling.

When did your love of STEM begin?: Well, I have enjoyed making things since I can remember , and learning everything I can, for a long time. But specifically STEM areas, I would say I got more interested between Kindergarten and Grade 1 when I did my first STEAM product of FunCro. That was an awesome combination of Engineering, Applied Science, Math, Art ( for aesthetic reasons,) and Economics.

What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?: You can really figure out how things work, and I find that really cool. It also helps bring out the inner curiosity in you which is fun and invigorating! Like when you have that ‘AH HA’ moment!!!!
If it was not for STEM, I would have not had a chance to impact other people's lives. Show a path that is more than living on the street. Help them to have a chance to make a choice to make a change in their lives!! Which is how STEM overlaps with Economics, and day to day life.

What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?: Really just look into things and if there’s something that doesn’t make sense learn about it, research it, because what’s the harm, so be curious…… and take the time to discover and explore. And see if you can get really knowledgeable about that area or topic, and then share/create with people, and keep growing from there. It will open up a world of other opportunities.
If I can do it between K to 8, then that means you can too!!!! so there are no reasons to not try at any age, there’s always a way. It is not about being the smartest person in the room, it is about being knowledgeable, using that knowledge, and having grit