This Q&A is part of a four-part series that focuses on women pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers. Each Friday in November a new Q&A will be released.

Kyndall Holt is currently a senior at UNC Chapel Hill pursing pre-med. She graduated from PCC in 2022 with an associate in science degree as a Career and College Promise student.

What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?

My passion for science and medicine is something that has been with me since childhood. However, my greatest inspiration came from my sister. When we were young, she became ill, and for years, we faced uncertainty as doctors struggled to find answers. Watching my sister battle through such challenges instilled an inspiration in me. I saw how much hope my family placed in each new possibility, and it motivated me to make a difference. During a time when I felt powerless, I promised my mom that one day I would help uncover what was wrong with my sister. Eventually, my sister found her diagnosis, and I found my dream.

How did your time at PCC prepare you for your future career?

When I first started at PCC, I was unsure of myself. However, my time there transformed me into someone who is confident and prepared for the future. The supportive community in both the people and the culture was instrumental in that transformation. The classes not only deepened my knowledge but also pushed me to think critically and challenge myself.  Additionally, working in the Learning Commons strengthened my ability to communicate and collaborate effectively. The education and experiences I gained at PCC will be the foundation for my continued success in further education and my career.

What advice would you give to women interested in pursuing STEM careers?

My advice to women pursuing STEM careers is to embrace your passion and confidently march to the beat of your own drum. Don’t be afraid to dream big and pursue your goals relentlessly, even if the road gets a little rocky. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek out mentors, and never let doubts keep you from reaching for the stars. There’s nothing a little persistence and passion can’t do.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in STEM, and how have you overcome them?

My STEM education is currently continuing at UNC Chapel Hill, a diverse and inclusive environment where, fortunately, being a woman hasn’t placed me at a disadvantage. Here, the focus is on perseverance and dedication, regardless of gender. While I’m very aware that gender biases exist in many spaces, I’ve been fortunate to be in an environment where hard work and passion are what truly matter. My mom always taught me to believe in myself and not the status quo. That mindset has helped me push forward with confidence, knowing that my dreams are within reach if I keep working toward them.

Are there any misconceptions people have about women in STEM? If so, how can they be addressed?

There are certainly many misconceptions about women in STEM, ranging from doubts about our capabilities to assumptions about our interests. However, these misconceptions shouldn’t hold weight. At the end of the day, we are all individuals with unique strengths, and the opinions of others should never define our potential. What truly matters is your own belief in yourself and your

passion for what you do. If you love your work and are dedicated to your field, that joy and commitment is the key to your success. These misconceptions can be addressed by pushing boundaries, supporting one another, and continuing to follow our hearts.

What kind of doctor do you hope to become, and why did you choose that path?

This question is one that never leaves my mind. I find myself drawn to different specialties such as pediatrics, cardiology, and emergency medicine because I have a deep passion for medicine in all its forms. While I haven’t yet chosen a specific specialty, what I do know is that I want to be the kind of doctor who truly appreciates the art of healing. My goal is to make my patients feel safe, heard, and reassured, even when the situation is challenging. Above all, I aspire to be a doctor who focuses on treating the person, not just the disease.

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