Crystal Vue (she/her) joins us on the show. Crystal is an Oregon State University graduate and bioengineer working in the pharmaceutical industry. Tune in as we find out what makes this engineer tick!

 

Q: Please describe where you work & your occupation

I work in quality control as an analytical chemist, testing drug products.

Q: Career-wise, what have been your proudest moments/highlights/accomplishments so far?

Probably earning my degree in bioengineering and getting the opportunity to work for my “first-pick” company.

Q: What are some of your future goals or things you would like to accomplish?

I really enjoy working in operations and doing the hands-on tasks, but I want to eventually move into the engineering side of my job.

Q: What have been some of your biggest career challenges?

Being a first-generation American and college student. Though the biggest challenge has been finding a career path in general because I don’t have family members in STEM that I can talk to about career moves or what experiences I should have in order to get to where I want to be. This affected how fast I was able to move forward in my journey, and get to my goal because I was figuring things out along the way. There have even been times when I’ve had to backtrack.

Q: Many young women might not be aware of the career available in STEM fields. What do you think can be done to spread the word to women about career options in these fields?

I think clubs that offered mentorships would help. I think that some of the best advice some from people who have been through similar struggles.

Q: Do you have any advice for women who are looking to follow in a similar career path?

Believe in yourself, because your ability to achieve your dreams does not depend on the number of people that are standing in your corner.

Q: What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?

I actually just started beauty school. I’m a busybody and I’ve decided it was time to tap into my first passion, beauty/makeup, and find a side hustle that allows me to be creative.

 

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