LaTonya Taylor

Nationwide, women now receive more bachelor’s degrees than men but are less likely to get them in science and engineering. Students like UNC Asheville sophomore LaTonya Taylor prove that disparity may fade fast.

The UNC Asheville mechatronics major recently participated in the GlaxoSmithKline Women in Science Scholars Program, a twice-yearly conference and mentorship program that introduces science scholars to successful women in their field. Taylor, a graduate of Asheville High School, joined some 100 participants from 24 other North Carolina colleges and universities at Research Triangle Park for the day-long meeting. Topics covered included potential internships, graduate school options and work-related issues.

“I was surrounded by women who have broken down the barriers that still exist in these types of professions, which then allows greater opportunities for women in other fields,” said Taylor.

During the first meeting, Taylor was introduced to her mentor, GlaxoSmithKline Principle Scientist Lisa Miller. Miller, whose professional research concentrates on orphan nuclear receptors, will offer advice and support to Taylor as she navigates her career in science.

GlaxoSmithKline, the second largest pharmaceutical company worldwide, established the Women in Science Scholars Program in 1993 to support female undergraduates interested in science. The program provides a $500 scholarship each semester for participating students.

The timing couldn’t be more appropriate. According to the National Commission on Mathematics and Science Teaching for the 21st Century, eight of the 10 fastest growing occupations are science, math or technology related. Jobs requiring math and science skills will increase by 5.6 million by 2008.

“Too many women shy away from things because they are often considered male-dominated,” said Taylor. “Programs like this one show that there are lots of places for women in fields where their presence may not always be plentiful.”

Yusef Fahmy, director of engineering at UNC Asheville, believes the program will broaden Taylor’s outlook on the variety of opportunities she can pursue.

“This meeting opens up some different paths for Toni,” said Fahmy. “I think it helped her realize that there’s an abundance of things she can do after she graduates, whether it’s working as a practicing engineer or going on to graduate school. Whatever path she chooses, Toni will be a very constructive and positive asset.”