Dream Big

Sarah Wilson

Sarah Wilson, based in Los Angeles, CA, US, is currently a Business Performance Director - Strategy and Performance Excellence at Amgen. Sarah Wilson brings experience from previous roles at Amgen. Sarah Wilson holds a 1999 - 2004 Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Analytical Chemistry @ The University of Kansas. With a robust skill set that includes Leadership, Chromatography, Collaborative Problem Solving, HPLC, Biomarker Development and more..

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Christie Rink

Christine Rink is a Principal Engineer at MITRE with more than two decades of experience in systems engineering and the aerospace industry. Prior to joining MITRE, she spent over 21 years at The Aerospace Corporation, where she advanced from Senior Engineering Specialist to Principal Engineer, contributing to complex engineering and space-related initiatives. Christine holds both a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Southern California. She is passionate about applying engineering expertise to advance national security and space technologies while mentoring the next generation of engineers.

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Hang Tran

Dr. Hang N. Tran is a board-certified pediatrician at Ventura County Medical Center with more than 20 years of experience providing comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents. She earned her medical degree from the LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport and has dedicated her career to promoting the health and well-being of young patients through compassionate, family-centered care. As a specialist in general pediatrics, Dr. Tran is committed to supporting children through every stage of growth and development, emphasizing preventive care, healthy development, and long-term wellness.

1 What first sparked your interest in science or STEM, and how old were you when that happened?
My interest in math started in elementary school. Math made sense — you were taught a concept and could apply it to different problems and get the right answer.

2 Did you ever feel like you didn't 'belong' in STEM? What helped you push through that feeling?
The only time I felt like I didn't belong in STEM was during male-dominated surgical specialty rotations. Like everything else, you have to push through by showing up on time, working hard, being prepared, and studying.

3 What is the most exciting or meaningful part of your work? The most exciting part of my job is figuring out a patient's diagnosis. The most meaningful part is seeing the patient feel better.

4 What's something about your field that most people misunderstand?
Most people do not understand that diseases do not look the same in every patient.

5 What would you tell a young girl who loves science but isn't sure she's "smart enough" to pursue it?
I would tell a young girl who does not feel "smart enough" that she does not need to be the smartest person in the room — she needs to be the person who puts in the most effort.

6 What is the coolest part of your job?
The coolest part of my job is that it is never boring. You are always learning new things.

7 Did you have a role model when you were young? What made them special?
My parents were my role models. They didn't introduce me to STEM, but they taught me to work hard and the importance of education. My dad worked two jobs while my mom raised five children and sewed at night for extra money after immigrating to a country where they didn't speak the language.

8 What would you invent if you could invent anything?
If I could invent anything, it would be a universal electronic health record system that allows providers to see a patient's comprehensive medical history.

9 What's one thing you want every girl to remember about STEM?
I want every girl to remember: if you work hard, you will succeed in STEM — and you will never be bored.

Melissa Remmel

Melissa Remmel is a molecular biologist and Scientist II at Violet Research Institute with extensive experience in molecular diagnostics, assay development, and translational research. She has worked across leading biotechnology companies, contributing to the development of innovative diagnostic technologies while specializing in molecular biology, data analysis, and project leadership. Melissa earned both her B.S. in Biological Sciences (Systems Physiology) and M.S. in Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology and Microbiology) from San José State University, where her graduate research focused on the molecular mechanisms of melanoma apoptosis. She is passionate about advancing diagnostic science to improve patient care and translating cutting-edge research into real-world clinical impact.

Christina Bekaroglu

Ms Christina Bekaroglu is a math teacher and enthusiast at Oaks Christian High School. She is described by her students as kind and engaging, and is know for class that combine mathematics with fun activities and demonstrations.

Christine Hanbey

Christine Hanbey is a Nuclear Medicine Technologist II at Cedars-Sinai with over two decades of experience in diagnostic imaging and patient care. Throughout her career, she has specialized in nuclear medicine, radiation safety, clinical research, and advanced patient care, with expertise in IV therapy, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and imaging technologies. Prior to joining Cedars-Sinai, Christine served in clinical leadership roles at UCLA Health, Moorpark College, and private practice, where she combined technical excellence with a commitment to education and mentorship. She earned her bachelor's degree in Radiologic Science with a concentration in Nuclear Medicine from the Oregon Institute of Technology. Beyond her clinical work, Christine is dedicated to serving her community through volunteer efforts with organizations including the American Red Cross and LA Family Housing, reflecting her passion for improving both patient and community well-being.