Girlstart’s Women in STEM weekly series highlights various women who are making a difference in STEM. Be inspired as these incredible women describe how they became interested in their field, provide insight into a day in the life, and share learnings from their experiences.
Dr. Kim Dao
Podiatrist at Southwest Austin Foot & Ankle Clinic
Often being the only girl in her classes, rotations, and medical training, Kim decided to expose more girls to her career field. We are so grateful to have her as a Girlstart volunteer and to have her speak about her experience in the medical field with us today!
Briefly describe your career.
I am a physician and surgeon dealing with the ailments of the foot and ankle.
What are your favorite things about being a podiatrist?
I am able to treat children to grandparents. I have the opportunity to work in a hospital, surgical, and clinical setting, and best of all, I get make people’s feet and ankles feel better; thus they feel better as a whole.
What would you like to tell girls who are interested in pursuing a STEM career?
It will be a challenging road, with a lot of studying, and sacrifice with some of your social life, but in the end, you come out with a wonderful, rewarding career that helps you give back to society in such a direct way. And the pride that comes with that is immeasurable.
What words of encouragement would you share with them?
Always strive high for your dreams.
Why is confidence in STEM important for girls?
Girls should know they have every ability to do anything boys can do… and sometimes better!
What is your favorite Girlstart moment?
I love volunteering during the Annual Girlstart conference, where I am able to present my career to many young, inquiring female minds, and the joyful thought that someday, potentially several of these ladies will be future podiatrists and my fellow colleagues in the field.
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