Katherine Ackerman, a fifth-year PhD candidate in atmospheric science, launched a writing group in the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) aimed at fostering community and addressing academic inequities for women in STEM. The group brought together graduate students, post-docs, staff and researchers for focused writing and professional growth.
Each session began with “talk-story” followed by a targeted discussion on a writing-related topic. Topics ranged from how to set SMART goals, to discussing issues such as gendered writing in letters of recommendation for women. It was then followed by one to two hours of quiet, collaborative writing time.
Setting goals, establishing habits
Participants were encouraged to set semester, weekly and daily writing goals to help establish productive habits. The goal was to approach writing like a scientist—gather data on writing habits and assess what works best for your personal writing productivity.
“Starting grad school during the COVID-19 pandemic really impacted my ability to connect with others,” said Ackerman. “My goal is to create a space for women and non-gender-conforming individuals that will continue beyond my time here at UH. Community is crucial, especially for underrepresented groups in STEM.”
Ackerman, who served on the executive council for Graduate Women in Science Hawaiʻi for three years, has been a vocal advocate for addressing inequities in STEM and academia. Initially aiming to gather a few participants, the group attracted 20 members,—most of whom were women. Participants worked on a wide range of writing tasks, from master’s theses and PhD papers to National Science Foundation grants and job application materials. Many members expressed their gratitude for the support and camaraderie provided by the group, noting that they would not have achieved as much of their writing goals without it.
“I’ve had folks reach out about continuing the group in future semesters,” Ackerman said. “I feel strongly about creating spaces like this, and while I plan to apply for another round of CASA funding, I believe I will continue the group regardless of the funding outcome.”
For more information, see SOEST’s website.
