Persistence, Belonging, and Success: Women Mathematicians in the Academy

• In Event: Crafting Success for Women and Girls in STEM

Abstract

This feminist qualitative study analyzed the stories of six women mathematicians to deepen understanding of the challenges women in the academy face in male dominated fields, such as mathematics. Findings from semi-structured interviews showed that academic mindsets of belonging and persistence contributed to participants’ success in spite of implicit racism and sexism in the academy. Additionally, a participant’s internal measure of success was defined by the interrelationship of confidence, persistence, and belonging, and a participant’s persistence sometimes led to her not belonging or belonging on her terms through caring and agency. The participants suggested changes to the structures of the academy and shared examples of their agency in support of other women in mathematics.

Author

• Jerelyn Watanabe, Myron B. Thompson Academy