Read more about our three scholarship winners who participated in the 2025 Summer Mentoring circles!
Heaven Wade
The AWIS-Chicago chapter has been instrumental in shaping my post-baccalaureate journey in science. Through this program, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with an inspiring network of women scientists from diverse backgrounds and at various stages of their scientific careers. It has provided me with a supportive community where I’ve felt truly seen and encouraged to share both my challenges and successes without hesitation. The encouragement and mentorship I’ve received have been invaluable and often extend beyond our summer sessions. The AWIS-Chicago mentoring circle has helped me identify and pursue my PhD program, connect with scientists within my field, engage with industry professionals, troubleshoot experiments, and gain the confidence to advocate for myself in professional spaces.
Leslie Tenn
Samia Tasmim
I have been part of the AWIS Chicago Mentoring Circle for two consecutive years, and each has given me invaluable connections and amazing mentors, some of whom I’m still in touch with and continue to receive thoughtful support and feedback from on my career journey.
I’ve also learned so much from my peers, who bring such generosity and perspective to every conversation!
Being part of this community has helped me grow more confident in facilitating discussions, building bridges across groups, and leading with empathy.
I’ll continue to support this incredible initiative by AWIS and hope others do too, especially now, when women in science need to stand together and support one another.