ABOUT PAULA

My STEM Journey started at an early age

It was unavoidable – nerd runs in my DNA, I became a chemical engineer because I come from a family of engineers.  My father, grandfather, brothers and uncles are all engineers…  I was incredibly lucky to have this exposure from such an early age, constantly surrounded by examples of how engineers improved my life, so it felt obvious to pursue this path myself.  I want all kids to experience this – to be surrounded by the confidence and optimism that they have the power to fix anything in this world.

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I love helping people.  I was first drawn to medicine, but since I faint at the sight of blood, becoming a doctor was not in the cards for me.  This is what drew me into pharmaceuticals, where I have worked for 17 years.  My career allows me to witness the magic that happens when difficult problems are met by innovative solutions through STEM.

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Hard to believe that this Brazilian girl, born from Chilean parents, has adjusted so well and found her own definition of success.  I went on to receive my B.S. and M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Penn State.  Engineering has proven to be a solid foundation that has opened many opportunities through my career progression.