Dr. Sara Lapan
My studies in mathematics have taken me all across the country. I grew up in the college town of Ames, Iowa. I attended the University of Chicago, where I received my undergraduate degrees in both mathematics and economics. I went on to receive my Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Michigan. I was then a visiting faculty member of the mathematics department at Northwestern University for three years before joining the mathematics department at the University of California, Riverside.
As a researcher in mathematics, I investigate dynamical systems. More precisely, complex (as in complex numbers) dynamical systems. If you go to my website, you can see a picture of a fractal related to my research as well as a dance to explain my research. As a mathematician, I spend my time investigating and experimenting to better understand relationships using a computer (such as with the java based program Dynamics Explorer) as well as with the classic pen and paper.
Over the years, I have been involved with several different groups for women in STEM both with national and local groups including Queens of STEAM, American Women in Mathematics (AWM), local chapters of AWM (there is one at UCR), Midwest Women in Mathematics, FEMMES at the University of Michigan, and GROW at Northwestern University. I have also been invited to give talks on my experiences as a woman in mathematics and on my research to women in mathematics. I am excited to be inspiring and mentoring women learning mathematics.
A few tips for women in STEAM:
Collaborate. Seek out people to work with from the very beginning. The best research is usually done in groups and developing skills to collaborate with others early on would be very helpful.
Persist! If you want to pursue a career in STEAM, you will have to be ready to persist and push past obstacles. Do not let anyone discourage you.
Seek out mentors and peers who you feel comfortable talking with so that you have someone to get advice from when you need it.
Find commonalities with your peers in whatever you choose to pursue. We are all more alike than we are different even though it may feel easier to focus on the differences. You may find yourself in a room where you are the only woman or the only ____. Instead of allowing that to make you feel like you do not belong, search for what you share in common.
Advocate for yourself. It is inevitable that one faces an external challenge (such as health or finances) that may affect your progress. If this is the case, be ready to let people know right away as most people are understanding if they know about the issue, but you have to tell them.
