AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH OCTOBER'S MENTEE OF THE MONTH: VIHA KEDIA!

1.What are your passions in STEM and what motivates you to pursue them? Do you have any passions outside of STEM and how did they develop?

 My STEM interests are very eclectic...I'm someone who simply does what seems interesting. Currently though, I'm very interested in maths and physics, specifically mechanical physics, and especially the intersection between the two. As for passions outside of STEM, I'm passionate about Economics and am thinking of pursuing it along with maths, as i think it will help me become an instrument which can bring about change in the development of the world. I also love English literature because I think being a linguist helps me connect with people (I just signed a book deal with Amazon Publishing as well!).
 

2.How has your experience in the 1000 Girls, 1000 Futures program been so far and what has been your favourite experience? 

Living in the small city of Dubai, I haven't received many opportunities to collaborate with like-minded girls on a global level. My experience with this program has been simply so positive and uplifting because of all the support from this powerful STEM community. What I loved the most was the ability to network with the mentors who offer invaluable guidance, and gain access to so many opportunities to further my interests and experience in STEM.

3. What do you think helped you become mentee of the month? Do you think something particular—such as passion projects or initiatives—made you stand out from the rest of the students in the program? 

I don't think I could pinpoint a certain aspect that made me mentee of the month, but I am truly grateful for the experience with my first pod, which made me aspire to keep pushing myself and remain proactive. My advice to the rest of the mentees, is to just keep putting in your full effort and it will surely be rewarded!

4.How are you keeping a balance between your schoolwork, family and friends, responsibilities, and passion project(s)?
 

I get very anxious about work and often spend hours on pieces of work that don't require it as I strive for perfection. But I've come to realize that sometimes it's okay to let go and embrace slight imperfections. I also try to look at what I do in the bigger picture. I absolutely love To Do lists as well and I think they really help me organize a scattered mind, so I always keep one for the week. The most important aspect of life for me is to make time for loved ones and enjoy myself, so I just want to remind the mentees that work isn't everything! There is virtue in work and virtue in rest!

5.What would you say to girls who are inspired to pursue a STEM career? 

I would say be curious. Clearly all the participants of this program are bright and have the zeal to pursue their STEM dreams, and curiosity will pave the way to discovering new worlds and possibilities. Another piece of advice would be to use this platform as much as you can. It is invaluable. It is not often that we get a chance to surround ourselves with industry professionals and unlock the power of global collaboration, so don't shy away from networking and contacting as there's nothing to lose and so much to gain!