In December of 2015, International Women and Girls Day in Science was to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. To celebrate, the Case School of Engineering is sharing stories of remarkable women across the quad from students to faculty. Learn about their research, their journey to engineering and the advice they have for other women. 

Wendy Wu

Third-year computer science student
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Why did you choose to study engineering?

I chose to study engineering initially because of good career prospects. However, I continued to pursue engineering because I enjoyed working with thinkers and problem solvers to bring value to society.

What is your favorite or most meaningful thing about studying engineering?

Studying engineering is rewarding in strengthening my logical thinking skills, communication with others, and determination when faced with technical challenges and pushing myself beyond my limits to develop solutions that improve services and systems.

Were there women in STEM who came before you who helped influence you to pursue this field? If so, who were they and how did they impact you?

The first woman in STEM who inspired me is my mother, who pursued a career in computer science and introduced me to pursue this field. At CWRU, I was inspired and motivated by Professor Evren Gurkan-Cavusoglu of the EECS department. She served as a role model to me because of her commitment to helping female students in EECS pursue exciting opportunities at CWRU and beyond. She introduced students to the Women In Tech Initiative and its networking events, fostering the exchange of professional advice and tips from experienced industry professionals (often alumni) and current students. She is a caring, supportive, and well-respected professor and I enjoyed her lectures in logical circuits and am thankful for her help both within the classroom and outside the classroom.

What advice do you have for young women (grade school or high school age) who are interested in science and pursuing a career in STEM?

There will be humbling times studying STEM. However, many of your peers and professors/instructors are willing to help you succeed! Don't be afraid of failures, they are only the start to a better version of yourself. Bring your confidence and go for it!