Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Joy Araneta.
Hi Erin Joy, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I moved to the USA with very little: a box and big dreams. When my parents told me that we were moving to America, I was initially apprehensive about learning a new language and finding myself in an unfamiliar place. As a first-generation college student in America, I struggled. While I remained passionate about chemistry, being an immigrant and woman of color, I – like so many students from under-represented backgrounds – did not have access to role models with similar experiences who excelled in this field. I did not know where to start, and my parents lacked cultural insight into the university system. There were many aspects of college that I did not know; however, I quickly learned the value of my ability to be resilient.
While at Golden West College, I decided to become involved with on-campus organizations to find community. In my interactions, I made a conscious effort to include everyone; especially those who, like myself, felt different. I worked to help them find their place and thrive. One of my favorite projects is the mentorship program I created for English as a Second Language (ESL), students where they get paired with an honor society member as a conversation partner. In this program, ESL students had a person they can learn English from and share their experiences with. This volunteerism has helped me to be comfortable with the idea that I could really help and influence others and, ultimately, has inspired me to pave the way for other young people to pursue their passions.
Because of the passion for sustainable chemistry I developed during my college experience, I have learned that global warming disproportionately affects the poorest communities in the world. This personal connection to global warming and how little Filipinos from indigenous groups know about the science behind it was my inspiration to found Theory of Joy in August 2020. This non-profit organization aims to improve education access to combat poverty and make STEM more accessible by providing culturally responsive STEM education. As of this summer, Theory of Joy has fundraised and received grants to build a school, dig sustainable water wells, and provide over 33,000 meals with the help of many volunteers and donors. Theory of Joy has worked to provide culturally responsive education to the indigenous communities of Zambales, Philippines. Through my work with Theory of Joy, I am committed to making education accessible and integrating chemistry into their curriculum. I have integrated crystallography and microscopy labs, as well as the science behind water filtration, so they can get a better understanding of their environment and its intersection with science.
In my effort to spread chemistry and sustainability to the world, I have organized several science-related outreach opportunities. I am grateful to have a large platform as the current Younger Chemists Committee Chair of the Orange County American Chemical Society (ACS) section and founder and director of the non-profit organization Theory of Joy. Through self-taught planning and experimentation, I turned my ideas into outreach events where a diverse group of volunteers and attendees can learn. I also work on planning the events and applying for grants to get funding. I have spent time in hospitals, farmers’ markets, and even virtual chemistry magic nights to show different kids—sick kids and kids from disadvantaged backgrounds—the fun and excitement of chemistry. Theory of Joy and my experiences with the ACS have reinforced my passion for communicating science to a broader audience. I strive to provide opportunities for people of color and women to thrive in STEM fields.
This passion also drove me to write the first five books in a children’s book series, The Adventures of Chemist Clara. The book features a young, curious, and adventurous girl, Clara. I was bothered by the nerdy and awkward stereotypes that portray chemists in children’s books, so I applied for grants to produce this work and won the Student Startup Grant and Undergraduate Innovation Fellowship from the University of California Irvine (UCI) Beall Applied Innovation for this book. I hope that this book will show young girls from all backgrounds what a chemist does and confirm that everyone can be one. I am very proud to enable kids to not only see what is possible in STEM but also understand that they can pursue STEM as well.
In addition to my academic and research pursuits, I have dedicated a significant portion of my time to fostering inclusivity and mentorship. Recognizing the importance of representation in STEM, I authored a series of five children’s books titled “The Adventures of Chemist Clara.” These books aim to break stereotypes by featuring a young, curious, and adventurous girl, Clara, who explores the wonders of chemistry. Disturbed by the prevalent nerdy and awkward stereotypes in children’s books, I applied for grants, winning the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Grant, Student Startup Grant, and Undergraduate Innovation Fellowship from UCI Beal Applied Innovation to produce this work. The series not only showcases the excitement of chemistry but also serves as a source of inspiration for young girls from all backgrounds, affirming that anyone can pursue and thrive in STEM fields.
Furthermore, my commitment to mentorship extends beyond the academic realm. Armed with a life coaching certification, I am equipped to better support and guide marginalized individuals, especially women, on their journeys. I believe in the power of walking alongside others, not only showing them what is possible but actively demonstrating that they are indeed capable of achieving their aspirations. As a woman in STEM, an immigrant, and a person of color, I understand the unique challenges faced by underrepresented individuals, and I am dedicated to providing the mentorship and support needed for them to flourish in their chosen paths. This life coaching certification strengthens my ability to empower others, creating a ripple effect of positive change within marginalized communities.
As an immigrant and woman of color in STEM, my path to science has been untraditional and challenging. Ultimately, I hope to give back to people with underrepresented backgrounds as a professor. I aspire to serve as a representative model to other minority and immigrant scientists, including women in science. In addition to that, I will continue to share chemistry to disadvantaged groups by writing children’s books and performing accessible and inclusive outreach activities. It still feels surreal that I stepped onto American soil just a few years ago, lost and facing substantial adversity. Now, I live every day with the opportunity to mentor and create an impact on other students. I am proud that I have gained the capacity to help students reach their goals, guide them toward helpful choices, and educate them. I want to pursue graduate school to improve my scientific thinking, expand my knowledge through cultivating creativity in my research project, and grow as a person.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in crafting engaging and educational children’s literature, particularly in the realm of chemistry. I’ve poured my passion for science into a series of five picture books called ‘The Adventures of Chemist Clara.’ These books not only aim to make chemistry fun and accessible for young minds but also promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. What sets me apart is the unique blend of storytelling and educational content, fostering curiosity and a love for learning from an early age. I take pride in creating a literary space where children can embark on exciting journeys of discovery, all while laying the foundation for future scientists.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success, often confined to grades and accolades by societal standards, transcends mere metrics for me. It’s about passionately championing what I believe in and gauging success by the profound impact I make. While my current endeavors might not touch millions, the lives I’ve already influenced defy quantification. My life’s mission is to translate these influences into tangible experiences, nurturing understanding and better living. Chemistry and creativity are the avenues through which I want to achieve this goal, fostering collaboration through experimentation. Looking ahead, I aspire to expand my global outreach, amplify my voice through writing, and mentor others. Fuelled by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and guided by curiosity, I aim to weave a tapestry of enrichment in the lives of those around me.
Pricing:
- 12
Contact Info:
- Website: https://erinjoyaraneta.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatserindoin/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/earaneta/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/whatserindoin
Image Credits
Steve Zylius Elaine Araneta Erish Araneta Zach Schwartz Veronica Ramirez
