Seton Hall University’s Women in STEM (WiSTEM) is a movement toward inclusivity, empowerment, and breaking down barriers for women and gender minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
With a mission to bridge the gender gap in STEM, WiSTEM provides a community where students, regardless of major or background, can find mentorship, support, and opportunities to grow professionally and academically.
Elizabeth Sudol Sciacca, a junior biology major and president of WiSTEM, said that the organization’s mission is to be leaders for women who are joining STEM, although the club is open to anyone passionate about supporting women in scientific fields.
“We want to bring more awareness to the subject,” Sciacca said.
Sciacca emphasized the importance of community within the organization. “We pride ourselves on having a diverse background and connecting with our members,” she said. “At every meeting, we check in with each other, making sure our members know they’re supported.”
WiSTEM provides a personal mentorship experience, creating a network of encouragement beyond structured programs.
“There are other mentor programs on campus, but we offer something different, a genuine connection between women in STEM who understand each other’s struggles,” Sciacca said.
WiSTEM also strives to make an impact on the community. One of their current initiatives involves launching a STEM program at Maplewood Middle School.
“We have principal approval, and we’re getting volunteers, including e-board members and new positions,” Sciacca said.
Another initiative, the Adopt-a-Class Program, allows WiSTEM members to visit elementary schools and conduct science experiments with students.
Deirdre Elliott, a junior pre-med major, and WiSTEM’s treasurer, said that the Adopt-a-Class Program has been fun.
“When I was in fifth grade, I would have loved something like this,” Elliott said. “It feels like we’re making a positive impact on our community.”
Women and gender minorities in STEM still face challenges, including being underestimated in academic and professional settings.
“I’ve experienced moments in the lab where I’ve been talked over,” Sciacca said. “Women and gender minorities are sometimes seen as less capable, but we help address that by encouraging members to find their voice.”
Shania Ali, a senior biology major and WiSTEM’s PR chair, also highlights common biases: “Some people think we’re not smart enough or that we don’t belong in the room, but we do. It’s an intimidating field, but if we support each other and encourage more women and minorities, we can change that perception.”
WiSTEM actively collaborates with SHU faculty and professionals to create new opportunities for its members. Addyson Osborne, a sophomore biochemistry major, acknowledges their faculty advisor’s role in fostering connections.
“Dr. [Angela] Baglio has been super helpful in reaching out and trying to find shadowing opportunities for us,” Osborne said. “She also shares our information with her classes, which helps get more students involved.”
For many members, WiSTEM has been successful in their academic and professional journeys.
“One of the biggest things for me is when girls come up to me after meetings asking for advice on getting research opportunities,” Osbourne said. “Being a support system for them has been really rewarding.”
Lauren Cinquino, a junior biology major and event coordinator, said she hopes to leave a legacy of mentorship.
“We have a lot of freshmen girls who join, and I want our leaders to be mentors for them,” Cinquino said. “We want to expand the club’s reach both on and off campus.”
WiSTEM also prepares its members for life after graduation. Amanda Burns, a senior psychology in the honors college and secretary of WiSTEM shared how the organization shaped her professional growth: “WiSTEM helped me build leadership experience in the sciences, which is exactly what I want to do after graduation. It also gave me networking opportunities that will help in my career.”
Burns emphasizes the importance of resilience as well: “In STEM, perseverance is key. You have to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.”
For students looking to join, WiSTEM is always welcoming new members.
“We’re at different fairs where students can sign up, but anyone can reach out to us or just show up to a meeting,” Osborne said. “We have events, volunteer programs, and so many ways for people to get involved.”
As a final message for students considering STEM careers, Cinquino said, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. No matter your background, GPA, or challenges. If this is your dream, go for it—find the right mentors, stay motivated, and don’t give up.
WiSTEM continues to aim for change, proving that women and gender minorities not only belong in STEM but can also succeed in it.
Victoria Sanders is a writer for The Setonian’s Campus Life section. She can be reached at victoria.sanders@student.shu.edu.
