Session G04: Building Your Mentor Network for Instersecional Identities (Mentees)

Building Your Mentor Network: a Tool to Thrive as a Marginalized Scientist

Intersectionality is the theory that individuals are made up of all aspects of their identities interacting with each other, plus the power structures that go hand in hand with them (Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, 1989). Navigating these power structures in physics is particularly difficult for marginalized students, especially women and non-binary folks of color, often due to a lack of representation and support at higher levels. In order to survive, it's up to us to seek support and mentorship to help us navigate the treacherous waters of academia. But how can we do that when we are often the lonesome “first” or “only” in our families, cohorts, or even fields? The answer lies in breaking with tradition. In this workshop, I will teach you how to build a mentor network that works collectively to support you — all parts of you. You have unique needs, identities, and goals, and you deserve a network of support that reflects and supports each facet of your being. Join me!