I grew up in Houston, Texas. After highschool, my love of science and math led me to pursue engineering.
Regardless of a system of remarkable universities with famend STEM packages in my dwelling state, I selected Oklahoma State College. The engineering program had small class sizes and plenty of undergrad analysis alternatives, which have been each large attracts. And OSU got here by way of for me, permitting me to double main in mechanical and aerospace engineering and create the launchpad for my profession.
Nonetheless, when it got here time to increase my training, I knew Oklahoma was not the place for me. And it wasn’t due to an absence of high quality academic choices.
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One main think about my determination to maneuver away from Oklahoma was the best way the state appeared to downplay ladies, particularly the well being points we face. It appeared particularly clear within the state’s efforts to disclaim entry to complete, evidence-based training about sexual well being and copy.
Intercourse training is so vital as a result of it helps ladies perceive their our bodies. We can not make knowledgeable selections about our well being if we’re not given clear scientific info. Realizing the information permits ladies to make their very own selections about when to have kids, and helps them establish and keep away from sexual abuse.
In some ways, it appears a majority of legislators wish to step in and make selections about ladies’s well being ― together with whether or not and the way they will entry contraception. I favor to dwell someplace that provides me the liberty to make these extremely private selections by myself.
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My work places me on the reducing fringe of know-how. However the actions of Oklahoma’s legislators and different elected officers make it clear they don’t share my dedication to the longer term.
I really like every part that OSU and Oklahoma gave me. Sadly, to flourish, I ― and lots of different folks like me ― have needed to go elsewhere. Till the state adjustments its methods, the very best and brightest will proceed to ascertain their careers in friendlier, more healthy environments.
I hope Oklahomans will demand their political leaders do extra to encourage and help all ladies, however particularly ladies in STEM. That is the important thing to making a brighter future for all Oklahomans.
Lauren Jones earned two bachelor’s levels in engineering from Oklahoma State College in 2019. She later earned a grasp’s diploma in aeronautics and astronautics from the College of Washington.