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Speaking From Experience

WHOI senior scientist Amala Mahadevan delivers the keynote address at the 4th annual Society of Women in Marine Science symposium earlier this month. The theme of this year’s SWMS event was “Swimming in Confidence: Declaring your Scientific Authority.” Mahadevan, a physical oceanographer, spoke about the professional and personal decisions that have shaped her career trajectory and stressed the power of choice and the value of a supportive community. The day-long symposium also included a panel discussion about the “leaky pipeline” that results in women leaving the marine sciences; presentations by women scientists about their research; and a session entitled “The Journey to Confidence,” in which women scientists shared personal experiences of overcoming challenges in their lives and careers. (Photo by Véronique LaCapra, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)