Bridging Psychology and STEM Advocacy: Jhalak Batta's Journey
In this episode of the Smoko Podcast, we sit down with Jhalak Batta, affectionately known as Jay, a dynamic third-year student at the University of Alberta pursuing studies in Psychology, Sociology, and Biological Sciences. Jay shares her compelling journey from discovering her interest in mental health during junior high to navigating a diverse academic path in university.
As a dedicated member of various community organizations, Jay dives into her significant role in UA-WiSE (University of Alberta Women in Science and Engineering) as the Director of Partnerships and now Director of Special Projects. This episode explores Jay’s passion for mentorship and her efforts in supporting women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM fields through initiatives like networking events and the Black Tie Affair.
Listeners will gain insight into Jay’s personal experiences, including her challenges and successes in balancing a rigorous academic schedule with extensive volunteer work. She discusses the impact of early volunteering, from working with students to her pivotal role as a crisis and connecteen responder on suicide lines with Distress Centre Calgary. Jay emphasizes the importance of building a support system, learning from failures, and fostering a sense of belonging in male-dominated fields.
This episode also highlights Jay’s advocacy for mental health and her involvement in mentorship programs that provide crucial support to high school students transitioning to university. Alexis and Jay delve into the systemic biases in STEM fields and the efforts of organizations like UA-WiSE to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.
“Combining psychology and biology gave me a new way to understand the world.”
– Jhalak Batta
Listen to the Episode
Smoko Podcast: Jhalak Batta on Spotify