It is young women like Alexia “Lexie” Geronimo who will truly make a difference in our world and represent powerful female minds. When thinking of a hardworking individual who works in the STEM field, many will think of a male. This is easily because women only make up 27% of STEM workers and are usually forced into a mindset that they cannot succeed in this challenging workplace environment. Lexie Geronimo, and many others like her, are actively changing this sexist stereotype by working extremely hard and encouraging others to do the same. 

Q: What club or activity has most affected you during your four years at Ledyard?

A: Being a part of the Ledyard Jazz Band has been an absolute honor these last four years. I’ve been playing the trumpet since 5th grade; I always knew I had a strong passion for music ever since I was little. I usually hate standing in front of large crowds, but performing at a concert makes me so excited. I’m excited to be playing in front of a live audience again at the Ledyard Holiday Concert! Performing for a large audience has boosted my confidence a ton.

Q: What do you plan to do after high school?

A: I have several options in mind, but I’m most interested in going to college for Astronautical/Aeronautical Engineering. I love designing, building, and testing mechanisms like the ones built on the Ledyard Robotics Team. My dream is to work for a space company like NASA, and help to explore what’s in outer space.

Q: What challenges do you think you will face being a woman in the STEM field, if any? 

A: Going into the STEM field, I want to help prove that women are just as capable of doing “a man’s job.” I’ve already had people try to discourage me from pursuing a STEM career just because I’m a girl. I know the STEM field is a lot of work, and there’s going to be people that try to stop me. But in the end, I want to go into STEM to help improve and advance society. I won’t give up easily.

Q: If you could change one thing about society, what would it be? 

A: Society’s beauty standards need to be changed. It’s sad how so many people don’t feel beautiful enough because they don’t look like what society typically perceives as attractive.

Q: What is something you feel strongly about?

A: I feel strongly about equal opportunities for everyone. It’s awful hearing people being hurt or excluded for things they can’t change, like their race, their identity, or who they love.

Q: Who has made the biggest impact on your life?

A: My friends are who help me to keep going. Several of my friends also want to go into the STEM field, so knowing I’m not alone makes me feel less afraid. All of my friends are so supportive, I would never be where I am now without them.

Emily Goodrich, Staff Writer

Senior Emily Goodrich is a staff writer for the 2021-2022 yearbook. She is the Class Vice President and an NHS member. When she’s not harassing her mom to go to the beach or with friends, you could probably find her napping.