Parmin Sedigh is an undergraduate student who is passionate about the stem cell field and science communication. You can find her on LinkedIn and @ParminSedigh, or view her portfolio website.
Three years ago, I wrote a blog post for Signals on why I’m passionate about stem cells and science communication as a high school student, and my advice for other students. Let’s explore how my perspectives have changed since then.
I yearn for a day when I look back on a previous piece I wrote without wincing. Alas, that day isn’t today. Reading my blog post from three years ago, I’m reminded of how lost I felt career-wise while feigning complete confidence. While I still don’t feel confident about what I want to pursue, I do have some new thoughts to share, particularly for high school students and undergraduates who are interested in exploring science communication.
But first, let me answer the question you’re likely asking right now: Who is this kid? I’m a second-year undergraduate student at the University of Toronto (U of T) studying Cell & Molecular Biology, Global Health and Bioethics. I’ve been interested in the stem cell field and science communication for years, having worked with the International Society for Stem Cell Research, the Gairdner Foundation and the New York Stem Cell Foundation. I’ve also been writing about the state of public involvement in scientific decision-making and the public perception of the stem cell field, most recently on The Niche.
The author interviewing Dr. Anna Blakney at Gairdner Science Week
Advice for Students
Now with the niceties out of the way, here’s my advice. I’ll be adapting some from my earlier blog (yes, despite my slight exaggeration earlier, there is some valuable advice in there too).
The first is to have a strong portfolio of content that showcases both your communication abilities as well as your understanding of complex scientific topics. As high school or undergraduate students, we don’t have any letters following our names to signify our expertise. So, we need to show that we’ve put the work in via our portfolios.
I’ll also add that you can and should be selective with your portfolio, especially as you get more experience under your belt. Just as you would tailor your resume to the role you’re applying for, make sure to pick out certain pieces of work or content that are particularly relevant to the opportunity or role you’re seeking. Keep in mind that the person you’re talking to likely doesn’t have the time to look at everything you’ve ever written or created so it’s your job to showcase the most interesting ones.
Another great piece of advice from my previous blog is to create opportunities for yourself. One of my professors recently told us a story about how he found his first research position: He walked into one of the research buildings at U of T and went around to every single lab asking if they’d take on an undergraduate student. After many rejections, he finally received a “yes.” A very inspiring story! It’s useful advice, but now we can also use channels like email, LinkedIn and Twitter. That also means that there is more of an expectation for students to seek out their own opportunities. So take advantage of that!
Here’s a fun fact: At least half of the most recent science communication-related opportunities I’ve gotten (writing an article or blog, covering an event, etc.) have resulted from me reaching out to someone I didn’t previously know simply out of interest and curiosity—meaning there was no explicit position I was applying for. Just me, a carefully crafted email, and a lot of hope.
A photo of the stage at Canada SynBio 2024, which the author recently attended after reaching out to the organizers.
Here’s where I’ll depart slightly from my previous advice. In my earlier blog, I mentioned simply reaching out. But I’d also recommend having a very clear idea of what you want out of the opportunity and how you’ll add value to the person/organization you’re reaching out to. Change “I’d like to help out with your science communication initiatives” to “I’d like to pitch an idea for X video that can highlight Y aspect of your organization as well as Z social media initiative.” I’ll readily admit the fact I don’t always do this but I should, and so should you.
Related to the advice on creating opportunities for yourself is to set up lots of coffee chats. While by no means revolutionary advice, this is a great way to learn what career might be right for you (something I’m actively doing) and to develop connections with new people. During these coffee chats, you can hear from people you admire and learn about their career journeys, and showcase your own skills and interests. Maybe the next time an opportunity comes up, you’ll be the person they think of.
Common Pitfalls
Now a few pointers for what you should avoid. Number one on the list is giving up too soon. I was recently talking to a science communications specialist who mentioned how she always relentlessly follows up when she wants something; remember, you’re not being rude by following up! Of course, there are limits to this. One rule of thumb most people can agree on is to wait at least a week after your initial message to follow up and maybe another week or two for a second follow-up.
I believe one of the disadvantages as you get more opportunities and experience is that you become more risk-averse. Looking back at the number of times I followed up on some previous opportunities I had, I realize I likely wouldn’t have that confidence today. I’m grateful I didn’t let fear or shyness get in my way.
This next pitfall is about science writing in general—and a point I’m sure seasoned writers and communicators can articulate infinitely better than I can, but I’ll try nonetheless. To synthesize information and offer something new to the reader or viewer, you need to surround yourself with information on the topic. Read extensively about it, listen to podcasts if any are available, and take lots of notes. Whatever you do, don’t read one paper and then write a piece on it. Not only will you miss out on nuance, but you also won’t have the chance to develop your own ideas. Give yourself—and by extension your ideas—room to breathe and build.
To sum things up, build a portfolio (and share select pieces from it), seek out your own opportunities, set up lots of coffee chats, follow up many times before giving up, and allow your ideas to build over time.
As for me, I’m still figuring out what I’d like to do in the future, but I know I want science communication and regenerative medicine to be a part of it. So, see you in another three years?
Guest
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