Breanna Jeffcoat

View Through My Lens: Being a Black Woman Pursuing a Degree in STEM Breanna Jeffcoat

Many women of color pursuing degrees in STEM go through so much to achieve our goals and reach the finish line. From struggling to put God first, to experiencing doubt, to imposter syndrome, to advocating for ourselves, and to being comfortable in our own skin. A View Through My Lens is a short piece exploring what it's like as a young black woman in STEM fields. It follows some of the personal experiences and obstacles I have gone through and overcome, as well as those I still face. This raw account of battles focuses on everyday issues and lessons I have learned along my journey.




I wrote this book for young black women and other minorities in STEM who may feel alone or misunderstood. I want to remind them that they are not alone; they can be successful and thrive. A View Through My Lens was also written to raise awareness of the struggles and obstacles we face daily, as well as encourage minorities not to be dissuaded while in their pursuit of STEM careers. The added representation of minorities in STEM is worth the strain we may encounter along the way.