Chelesa Fearce,
MD / Ph.D. Student, Yale University
July 13, 2023
How did you choose this path?
I chose to go into chemistry so that I may design novel medications for psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia. I was inspired to do chemistry because the first Black female teacher I had taught chemistry my sophomore year of high school.
What are some challenges that you had to overcome?
During my childhood, I experienced chronic homelessness. Despite this, I kept my sights on school and my dream of becoming a physician scientist. I graduated from high school as Valedictorian and went to Spelman College on a full scholarship. My professors at Spelman encouraged me along the way and saw the potential in me. I am forever grateful to them for instilling a great work ethic and courage into me so that I may continue to pursue this path.
Do you have any advice for other Black Women in STEM?
Never give up! No matter who you are, you deserve to be here. You are worthy and capable. Reach out to potential mentors early on.
Being a Black woman in STEM...
signifies capability and upward mobility of our society.
