Course Catalog

For the lay public, the image which first comes to mind when they hear the word ‘scientist’ is almost always a white middle-aged male in a lab coat, with thick eyeglasses, wild hair, and a slightly rumpled look. While the scientific workforce is more diverse now than in the 1950's when this stereotype was first documented, and while noted minority and women scientists are among the ranks of contemporary public intellectuals, this stereotype is alive and well in the 21st century. This course will try to get at the source of this stereotype and determine how and why science as an enterprise has often seemed so remote and inaccessible, especially for minorities and women. Specifically, students will focus on the discouragements and obstacles facing those traditionally underrepresented in scientific careers, while highlighting the accomplishments and achievements of pioneers/trailblazers (minorities and women) in science. Students will delve into their lives exploring the personal, professional and psychological dimensions of attainment and achievement. Such understanding will provide a context for discussing the variety of contemporary programs designed to attract minorities and women to careers in science. The course will conclude by exploring the relationship between self and community for minority and women scientists who have "made it". Minority and women students in science must learn to formulate a career/life path that addresses these issues, while meeting such practical needs as earning a living, having time for a personal life, and maintaining a sense of self-confidence and esteem. Hopefully, this course will help them do so. Fall semester.