Our newest Science Cheerleader (NFL, NBA cheerleading scientists and engineers) has multiple degrees and big dreams. Jessica is a rookie cheerleader on the Tennessee Titans who is also a biomolecular engineer. Learn more about her in this interview.

So…why engineering?
I have always enjoyed math and science and applying them to “real world” application was just a plus. It’s easy to see why you are learning certain subjects when you can readily apply the information learned. I am enjoying the challenging, diverse, analytical field of engineering. I don’t know if any other field would offer me as much satisfaction.

You’re pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering at Vanderbilt University. What specific type of engineering are you pursuing?
Jessica: I was very busy during my undergraduate years at Vanderbilt; in four years I completed a degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and my Masters of Science in Environmental Engineering. I am now in the second year of Vanderbilt’s Chemical Engineering Doctoral Program. I am studying Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. The main goal of a chemical engineer is to create, develop, and apply processes to molecules’ temperature, composition, chemical structure or physical state to produce something useful. These processes could convert raw materials such as crude oil into desired products such as cosmetics, plastics, or chemicals. I work in Modeling and Simulations, specifically with an equation of state called the Statistical Associating Fluid Theory, or SAFT equation. The SAFT equation provides a mathematical relationship between two or more properties (states) of a particular chemical. By applying numbers to these various states, we can describe how different chemicals behave more accurately.

Best part of your day job or studies?
Jessica: When working on an issue I can spend anywhere from 5 hours to 2 months or so working relentlessly on a problem. The feeling I get after solving the problem I have worked so hard on is indescribable.

Why did you tried out to be a professional cheerleader.
Jessica: I was excited about becoming associated with a group of women who are making major moves in their own life while also giving back to the community. I believe that giving back to those who are less fortunate, serving as a role model, and being a positive influence on others is extremely important. I am able to do all of the above and I am able to do it with a great group of intelligent women.

Which came first, your interest in science/engineering or cheerleading?
Jessica: Science and engineering definitely came first; since elementary school I have always enjoyed participating in science fair and math competitions. I spent my free time searching for competitions or science groups to join to increase my knowledge and understanding of science. Predicting then proving or disproving results of my theories continues to be a thrilling way to spend my day.

Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream and another?
Jessica: I would tell them that stereotypes are seldom accurate, and that if they have a genuine interest in a topic or subject, don’t allow society or what it expects to deter you from pursing it.

Along these lines, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self?
Jessica: I would tell her to, for sure, stay focused in pursuit of her education but to be sure to enjoy the journey. Your college days will be some of the best times of your life, the friends you make will last a life time, so please remember to enjoy.

What are your plans for the future?
Jessica: After I complete my PhD studies in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, it is my plan to become a college professor with research as well as teaching responsibilities.

Best cheerleading experience?
Jessica: The first professional game I cheered, wow, it was so exciting just being a part of it! The fans, 40,000 or more strong–the teams, the intense and fast-paced game–this was a great personal experience that I can assure you I will remember for the rest of my life.

Best engineering-related experience?
Jessica: I have attended and participated in many science fairs and competitions. One of my best experiences was presenting my research results at National American Institute of Chemical Engineers. The results of this presentation became my first successful publication in a peer reviewed journal. In addition, I won 3rd place out of 30 contestants.

Why do you want to be a Science Cheerleader?
Jessica: I think that it is important to show how accessible science and technology careers are to anyone with a genuine interest. If you are participating in something that makes you happy, you are bound to be successful. At a young age, it’s ingrained into us that if you don’t fit the specific stereotype of an engineer, scientist, or mathematician then you won’t succeed; however, I think it is important to let young girls know that this is not accurate and that you can do anything that you put your mind to with hard work and the help of God.

Howdy, folks! Bart the Cheer Operations Ninja here. Our latest Science Cheerleader interviewee is Theresa, the cheerleading coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts. I suppose you could say she and I have something in common in that 1) we were never cheerleaders, 2)  we are fans of science, 3) we often do behind-the-scenes work for procheerleaders! Like our other Science Cheerleaders, Theresa has a science degree and a real passion for science. Take a look at what she has to say!

What turned you on to science?
Theresa: I always loved science. When I was 12 I started working for a veterinarian who would let me run labs and talk to me about the different cases we would work on. I loved it!

What is your degree in and from where?
Theresa: My degree is a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science.

Favorite and/or least favorite courses you took to prepare for your degree? Why?
Theresa: I loved Physiology of Reproduction. I had a fabulous professor and I like learning why things work the way they do. I actually liked most of my science classes although I guess I liked biology classes more than chemistry classes. My least favorite class was an accounting class. My other passion is for theater. I have never been a cheerleader. I got involved with Colts Cheerleading through my background with theater. I started helping with halftime shows and other performance shows and tours. Eventually, I became the coordinator.

Theresa with country singer JD Danner

Best part of your day job or studies?
Theresa: Appearances in the community.

What’s your take on the the general stereotype of cheerleaders?
Theresa: I think cheerleaders are definitely stereotyped. A few years ago we had a story about one of our cheerleaders doing a photo shoot. Some lady wrote in and was making a lot of derogatory comments. One of her comments was that she, the writer, had a master’s degree, implying that she was better than the cheerleader. I had to inform her that the cheerleader she was talking about had a master’s in chemical engineering and was working for a major pharmaceutical company and was heading her own team of researchers!

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?
Theresa: Always leave your options open. You don’t have to be set in one world. I am a very creative person who loves theater and dance, but I also love science. In this case you can have it all! Bottom line: do what really interests YOU.

What are your plans for the future?
Theresa: For now I plan to continue to work for the Colts. After that, I might go back to teaching kids about science. Wouldn’t it be fun to have a class that was just science experiments and no tests!?

Best experience as a coordinator for the Colts cheerleaders?
Theresa: Traveling overseas to visit military and performing for them and their families, and of course being at the Super Bowl!

Best science/engineering-related experience?
Theresa: Working with kids and teaching them all the interesting things going on inside their bodies.

What’s one thing people might find especially surprising about you?
Theresa: People are usually surprised to find out that I am a dog show judge!

Meet Jessica, a science teacher by day, cheerleader for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks by night. She’s the latest addition to our growing team of Science Cheerleaders.

You teach science then head to whoop it up for the Hawks. What’s a typical day like?
Jessica: My day is anything but typical! I’m happy to answer this because most fans don’t know we have real jobs! The beginning of my day starts off with my 6th grade students, doing activities that relate to Earth Science in particular. I teach a broad spectrum of students ranging from special needs all the way to gifted, all in the same classroom.

After teaching I coach the dance team here at my school (they hold GA state championship titles) twice a week; I also own and operate a small studio competitive squad once a week (they have received many 1^st place awards regionally and nationally); and I serve as a member of the Atlanta Hawks Cheerleaders. I’m constantly on the go, so physical health and fitness are quite important. As a professional cheerleader, we always are conditioned for one hour before we even start practice. I also have a personal trainer in order to stay at my top physical shape.

Best cheerleading experience?
Jessica: The best experience being a cheerleader is being able to talk to fans. There are so many fans that become a major part of your job.

Best science-related experience?
Jessica: The best experience in the science field is when I do fun hands-on activities or labs in the classroom and the light bulb goes off for a student. It’s so awesome when they understand a scientific concept!

What’s one thing people might find especially surprising about you?
Jessica: I love import cars. I have done body work to my own car. I am most interested in how adding after-market parts to the engine will make the car beat some of the fastest muscle cars!

Meet Hannah, an Indianapolis Colts cheerleader with a fondness for science. She’s the latest addition to our team of Science Cheerleaders (NFL and NBA cheerleaders pursuing science careers).

What turned you on to science and when?
Hannah: The dental field really interested me as a kid because my aunt is a Dental Hygienist and she allowed me to job-shadow her a couple of times!

What is your degree in and from where?
Hannah: I’m currently a sophomore at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), and I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health Dental Hygiene.

Favorite courses you took to prepare for your degree?
Hannah: Anatomy and Nutrition. Anatomy was interesting because I love knowing which parts of the body are responsible for certain functions. Nutrition was equally interesting because proper diet and exercise are obviously important in the professional cheerleading world, and I enjoyed learning about the ways to maintain my health, as well as ways to offer advice and knowledge to my friends and family.

Why did you try out to be a professional cheerleader?
Hannah: This is my rookie year as a cheerleader for the Indianapolis Colts. I decided to audition for the squad because I have always enjoyed watching football. My uncle has been a football coach since before I was born, and from an early age I was attending the games and, of course, the cheerleaders always caught my attention. They always seemed so happy and glamorous, and I knew it was something I wanted to do once I was old enough. So, I would be able to combine my love for dance and football in a package deal! I was fortunate enough to make the squad this year, and I plan on re-auditioning next year because it has been an amazing experience thus far.

Which came first? Your interest in science or cheerleading?
Hannah: Cheerleading came into my life before I realized my interest in the science field. However, I always placed a heavy importance on my schoolwork from an early age. I understood that in order to achieve a balanced, full life that I would need to have a good education.

Can you describe a typical day?
Hannah: A typical day where I have both school and cheer is pretty jam-packed! I have about 4 hours’ worth of classes on days when the squad has practice. Our typical practices last between 3 and 4 hours, so at the end of the day I am pretty tired. However, after practice I always have an assignment to complete or an exam to study for, which usually takes another couple of hours. My life may seem busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Best part of your day job or studies?
Hannah: The best part of school for me is having classes with friends. There is actually another cheerleader on our squad who is pursuing the same degree as I am, and we have a class together. It is great to have someone to remind you when assignments are due and to study with for exams.

Do you find that stereotypes about cheerleaders helped or hindered your studies or professional experiences?
Hannah: Honestly, the only people who know that I am a professional cheerleader are the people that I personally know, such as my family and friends, or the people from my hometown. On campus, I am just another student. I do not tell others that I am a Colts cheerleader unless they somehow discover the fact for themselves. In the past, I have found that some people assume that cheerleaders are unintelligent, ditsy, and have everything in life handed to them on a silver platter. I do not want other students or professors to think of me this way, so I let my personality and intelligence be the source of their opinions of me.

How do your fellow cheerleaders accept your interest in science/engineering?
Hannah: Each and every woman on our squad is intelligent and independent. I would even venture to say that at least half of the squad has or is pursuing a degree in the science or engineering fields. I think that this shows how committed the Colts are to finding well-rounded, intelligent young women to represent the organization.

Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream (cheerleading, etc.) and following another (a STEM career)?
Hannah: I know that it is hard to push past the opinions of others, but stick to what you are passionate about and you will be happy and successful in life. 

Along these lines, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self?
Hannah: I would tell my 12-year-old self to ignore students who may taunt or tease you because they are more than likely just jealous that you are active and can maintain excellence in school. I would also tell myself that boys like smart girls, not girls who cannot think for themselves.

What are your plans for the future?
Hannah:I hope to work in a pediatric dental office. I enjoy working with kids because they are excited and willing to learn how to take care of their teeth, and they are young enough to break any bad oral hygiene habits that they may have developed.

Best cheerleading experience?
Hannah: My best NFL cheerleading experience so far has been every single game day. Each game seems to get better than the last because I become more confident and am able to relax and enjoy the experience a little more.

Best science-related experience?
Hannah: My best science experiences have come from teaching others about something that I have learned in the classroom. I enjoy helping my family and friends to better understand what their bodies may be doing and how they can improve their lifestyles through nutrition and fitness.

What’s one thing people might find especially surprising about you?
Hannah: People may find it surprising that I participated in sports other than cheerleading in high school. Additionally, I played volleyball and ran track and field. The hurdles were my best event!

If you could rewind the clock and change your degree, would you? If so, to what and why? If not, why not?
Hannah: Technically, it is not too late to change the course of my degree, but I do not wish to do so! Dental Hygiene gives me many options for my future as far as what type of work I will actually be doing, whether I’m in the office or teaching classes later in life, and it will allow me to have a career but still make time for my family in the future.

Why do you want to be a Science Cheerleader?
Hannah: I want to be a Science Cheerleader because I believe it is important to inspire young people to be all that they can be. I also want kids to know that education is extremely important, and that you don’t have to sacrifice fun, extra-curricular activities to be a good student. You CAN have the best of both worlds if you just set your mind to it and work hard!

Meet Stacy, our newest Science Cheerleader and perhaps our first hunter.

Stacy is a cheerleader for the Richmond Raiders (Arena Football League) and future vascular sonographer

You’re a vascular technologist. First, could you explain what that is?
Stacy: I use an ultrasound modality to look inside the veins and arteries to evaluate for peripheral disease including Deep Vein Thrombosis. Plaquing in the carotid artery is a leading cause for stroke in the United States, and I utilize ultrasound to assess the carotid arterial system which feeds the brain.

You explained that when you had your first interview with your current employer, they offered to train you in Vascular Ultrasound. Aside from the training, what drew you to that line of work?
Stacy: While I was taking my prerequisites for nursing school I worked in the Cardiovascular Lab as an EKG Technician. I had my heart set on being a nurse until I shadowed several of the Vascular Sonographers in our lab. I found it intriguing how the mechanics of the machine allowed you to look right into the body. It was astonishing to watch the arteries pulsate and witness the valves of a vein open and close. Not only did the science of it all attract me to the field, but it was a personal decision too. 

What teams have you cheered for and when?
Stacy: I cheered throughout high school, but as I entered my freshman year in college I wanted to focus on school and providing an education for myself. All the while I really missed cheerleading and being a part of a team. Friends and family started buzzing about the Richmond Raiders, a professional arena football team equipped with some of the league’s best players and an award winning dance team, The Lady Raiders. So here I am, entering my second year as a Lady Raider and still focusing of my career.

Did you find that stereotypes about cheerleaders helped or hindered you?
Stacy: I did find that I was categorized, but I never let it stop me. I knew that I was going to be successful no matter how others viewed me. I’ve found after being on a team of twenty five girls that none of us actually fit the stereotype. It’s quite a pleasure being a member of such professionals

Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream or another?
Stacy: I’m very proud to call myself a cheerleader and just as proud to call myself a geek. Don’t let SOMEONE ELSE’S inabilities to see past the stereotype of a cheerleader hinder YOUR aspirations! As this may sound a bit cliché, but do what makes you happy and let everyone else think as they may.

What are your plans for the future?
Stacy: I’m going to start by passing my boards and becoming a registered vascular sonographer. Soon thereafter I would like to venture into the world of echocardiography and get my masters degree in Medical Administration. Maybe even meet a nice guy along the way…haha!!

Best cheerleading experience?
Stacy: I would say that getting to know all of the girls and making such loyal friends has definitely been heartfelt. We also do a lot of work in the community and with different charities, which has made me feel like I’ve made a difference.

Best science-related experience?
Stacy: My co-workers and I get invited to educational seminars, which are usually held in fine restaurants, where other sonogrpahers and administration go and learn about interesting cases and ways to better your studies. Some of my best experiences have been at these kinds of events where you expand your knowledge and get to meet people who share the same interests as you.

What’s one thing people might find especially surprising about you?
Stacy: I’m not exactly the epitome of a “priss pot,” I have a license to hunt and fish. I can shoot a gun and bait my own hook! Needless to say I’m certainly not afraid to get a little dirt under my nails!

Greetings, all! Bart here with an inspiring interview with Samantha, our newest addition to the Science Cheerleader troop, who has a great story to tell: cheerleader for the NFL and NBA, physical therapist, teacher of future physical therapists, wife, and mom!

What turned you on to science and when?
Samantha: I have always had an interest in science and a passion for helping others, but I don’t think I realized it would be my career until I was in high school.  I was a counselor at a summer camp for children with disabilities.  Leesville Louisiana Lion’s camp is one of places the shaped me into who I am today.  It was an eye opening experience for me—I had no idea I could have so much fun and work so hard. 

What degrees do you have, and from where?
Samantha: I am originally from Louisiana and got my Bachelors in Kinesiology at LSU.  From there, I moved to Houston to attend TWU [Texas Women's University] where I got my Master’s of Science in Physical Therapy.   I attained a clinical doctorate in physical therapy or a DPT from Boston University. 

Favorite and/or least favorite courses you took to prepare for your degree? Why?
Samantha: It may sound crazy, but my favorite classes were my physics classes.  I had great teachers who inspired me to work hard in high school and college.  It was fun using math in application settings and solving problems.  Not to mention physics plays a direct role the mechanics of human movement, which I use every day at work as a physical therapist and when I dance. 

What got you interested in physical therapy?
Samantha: Great question!  Growing up I always thought I was going to be a broadcast journalist.  I even started out at LSU as a mass communications major.  But after one semester, I realized I was in the wrong field.  My mom reminded me of how happy I was when I worked at Lion’s Camp, which led me to physical therapy.  I knew I was on the right path from the first class I took. 

You’re both a teacher and a practicing physical therapist at The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR). What’s a typical day like for you?
Samantha: I work in the clinic part time and I teach Therapeutic Exercise as it applies to spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s Disease, and Multiple Sclerosis in the Fall and TWU and assist with labs with Advanced Spinal Cord Gait Training in the Spring with the University of Texas Medical Branch.  I also teach advanced wheelchair skills in the Neuroresidency program at TIRR. 

It was definitely a challenge to balance work with cheerleading.  I would treat from 8-12 and practice dances and sidelines at lunch then treat again from 1-5pm.  I would have a little time to run home grab a bite to eat and head to practice at 7pm. 

Tell us about the team(s) you cheer(ed) for and how long you’ve cheered for them.
Samantha: I was with the Houston Rockets 2006-2007. Being a Rockets Power Dancer was an awesome experience.  Since there were so many games, we were able to work with all types of dance styles.  It challenged me as a dancer to work outside of my comfort zone.  Our intro music was “Back in Black” by AC/DC- every time I hear this song I get pretty pumped up. I was with the Houston Texans 2008-2009. Dancing with the Texans was a great experience too!  I absolutely love watching football.  How awesome was it that I could cheer on my favorite team and dance too!?!

Which came first, your interest in science or cheerleading?
Samantha: Definitely science.  I remember my big brother working on his science fair projects when I was little.  I had so much fun when I finally got to do my own.  Sure, I took ballet, jazz, and tap when I was young, but I always thought this would just be a hobby.  I had no earthly idea that I would ever dance for a professional team. 

Did you find that stereotypes about cheerleaders helped or hindered your studies or professional experiences?
Samantha: I feel my participation in professional cheerleading was definitely helpful in all aspects of my life.  It keeps you balanced.  I could never take myself too seriously.  You have to be able to laugh at yourself and be open to critiques.  The same applies with work and school.  My co-workers and clients were always supportive.

How did your fellow cheerleaders accept your interest in science?
Samantha: I feel like the girls were very accepting of my role as a physical therapist.  Anytime someone hurt her neck, shoulder, knee, back, or ankle—they came to me.  I loved it!  I got to help out a teammate and do what I do best. 

Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream or another?
Samantha: Do I ever!?!  Being a cheerleader does not have to be separate from being intelligent.  I feel we don’t need to hide behind a stereotype when we have a lot more to share.  I was so blessed to have a family who encouraged me to do both. I have 5 beautiful nieces and I do my best to build them up in scholastics as well as athletic activities.  It is fun to see them blossom into beautiful girls while kicking tush at track, soccer, and essay writing contests!

Along these lines, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self?
Samantha: Ha!  It gets better.  At 12 years old I was so uncomfortable in my skin and thought there was little I was capable of. 

What are your plans for the future?
Samantha: I will continue to work clinically and teach as needed.  My greatest accomplishment is my sweet baby boy, who is currently 9 months old.  Being a physical therapist and dancing are nothing compared to this career.

Best cheerleading experience?
Samantha: There are a lot of high-energy experiences as a dancer for a professional team, but I have to say teaching and dancing with the little ones was always a highlight.  I was honored to work with the 6-year-olds with the junior cheer program with the Texans and it was a blast.  They have enthusiasm for dance and no fear, which is so much fun to work with!!

Best science-related experience?
Samantha: So many!  If I had to narrow it down (which is difficult), I would have to say the moment a client walks again.  I primarily work with clients who have brain injuries or spinal cord injuries.  Every time you show them what they can do, it is amazing!  It never gets old.

Greetings, Science Cheerleader fans! Bart here to introduce you to Cindy, an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader from Taiwan who’s pursuing a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering. She’s our newest Science Cheerleader (current and former professional cheerleaders pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, math and health fields).Happy reading!

What turned you on to science and when?
Cindy: Interestingly, I actually did not think about getting into anything science related field before I went to high school in Taiwan. I have been dancing since I was three years old, and all I thought about was becoming a dance teacher. But luckily, I scored a decent grade on the school entrance exam and got into the best girls’ high school in my city. That is when I started to get in touch with more science-related courses and realized it would be beneficial and useful to my life to pursue a science/ engineering degree with dancing as an interest. And I knew I would make my family proud as well!

Favorite and/or least favorite courses you’ve taken so far to prepare for your degree? Why?
Cindy: I like all the courses that I have taken so far because they all build upon each other and toward the practical application of my study. By far, my favorite course is Supply Chain Logistics: Manufacturing because my professor uses a lot of practical examples and problems to help me get a sense of what I will face when I start professional career in the industrial engineering related field.

You’re attending the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). What got you interested in Industrial and system engineering? Where do you intend to go with those studies?
Cindy: I chose Industrial and Systems engineering (ISyE) since Georgia Tech has had the best ISyE program in the country for 20 years now. It involves a lot of logical and analytical thinking as well as mathematical problem solving skills. ISyE can be utilized in almost every industry in some way somehow. I am now concentrating in supply chain logistics which is the study of optimizing the efficiency of a company’s service with minimum cost.

You cheered for Georgia Tech for a couple years, and now you’re in your rookie year with the Atlanta Falcons. What’s the biggest difference between cheering for college vs. the pros?
Cindy: Cheering for the Atlanta Falcons is definitely more intense and competitive than it was in college. There are more routines I have to memorize in a shorter period of time so I have to be on top of all the materials and be 100% ready to secure my spot in each dance. The other huge difference is that I got more opportunities and life experiences after I became one of the professional cheerleaders. I had the chance to be on TV shows with all my teammates and had the opportunity to go to Bermuda for the swim suit calendar shoot. Also, I get to meet and work with different people from all over the country or even around the world and hear their inspiring stories.

Which came first, your interest in science or cheerleading?
Cindy: I have been dancing my whole life since childhood and then my interest in science came along as I continued my education. Luckily, I was able to dance for Georgia Tech and got introduced to the world of professional cheerleading by my collegiate dance team coach. I completely fell in love with professional cheerleading ever since and decided to take the opportunity to try out for Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders!

Did you find that stereotypes about cheerleaders helped or hindered your studies or professional experiences? (Are you taken seriously?)
Cindy: To be honest, I can definitely tell some people doubt my abilities and look down on me when they first know that I am a professional cheerleader. But those who have the chance to get to know me usually end up realizing that a huge number of professional cheerleaders and I are stereotype breakers and we are dedicating our time not only to the pom-poms but also to science-related degrees or career. So far, the people I am working with professionally are being supportive and taking me seriously. 

How did your fellow cheerleaders accept your interest in science?
Cindy: My fellow cheerleaders have been very supportive. They always give me a lot of spinergy (spirit + energy – word created by our one and only Coach Chato!), words of encouragement and hugs to cheer me up and tell me not to give up. We support each other just like a big family!

Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream and another?
Cindy: Seriously, do not think you can only have one or the other. Do not assume that you can’t do both before you even try it. Coming from a typical Asian family, I can still remember the time when my mom was asking me to stop dancing and to focus on school work. I had to fight for it and told her that studying cannot be the only thing in my life. I also expressed how dancing has helped me grow so much in different ways of my life and it does not affect my academic performance. Ever since then, she has been very supportive and proud of me. So, do not easily get discouraged and keep chasing your dream!

Along these lines, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self?
Cindy: Work hard but don’t stress out too much. It’s okay to fail. Just find the problem, try again and keep working. Remember, you have to believe in yourself so other people will believe in you! You can do it! =)

What are your plans for the future?
Cindy: I am still exploring all the different possibilities that I can pursue in my life. But since my parents are still Taiwan, I might eventually go back and settle there so I can be closer to them. For now, I am considering applying to graduate school concentrating in supply chain engineering. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll be working to gain some work experience and then pursue an MBA degree in the near future.

Best cheerleading experience?
Cindy: The best cheerleading experience by far is the moment the Falcons won the first home game. The dynamic in the Dome was insane! Everyone on the stands were on their feet celebrating, and I literally felt I could dance for 10 minutes straight on the side line!

Best science-related experience?
Cindy: For one of my ISyE courses, we had to play a supply chain simulation game in groups. The simulation lasted for a week and by the end of the week each group will be rank based on how much money they earned. My group actually ended up in the first place!

Howdy, folks! Bart the Cheer Operations Ninja here. Darlene invited me to take a turn interviewing some of the new Science Cheerleaders. Something else new that we’re trying is talking to more current and former college cheerleaders who are pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Parish, who cheered at Virginia State University, is now pursuing a career as a math teacher in Virginia. I’ll let her tell the rest!

What turned you on to science/engineering?

Parish:In high school, I passed the state standardized test with an almost perfect score of 599/600. I felt like a genius so I figured I would take up math as my major in college and become a teacher!

Please tell us about your cheerleading experiences.

Parish: I cheered for Virginia State University 2006-2010. I started recreation league cheering after school at the age of 7. I loved every minute. I learned how to take constructive criticism and work hard towards my goal!

Cool! Let’s get back to teaching math. What sparked that interest?

Parish: My 7th grade English teacher, Mrs. Lassiter. She made it look so easy. I love teaching those around me especially little people (ages 3-6). They are so curious about the world around them. I was able to showcase that love of teaching through cheerleading camps teaching young divas how to be positive, strong cheerLEADERS.

Did you find that stereotypes about cheerleaders helped or hindered you?

Parish: I would say it helped because if you were to mention that you were a VSU cheerleader doors will open and kindness would flow in. Woo Woos (VSU cheerleaders) are known to be very disciplined, well mannered, organized and professional. So a lot was expected of us anytime we were in public or in the classroom.

Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream (cheerleading, etc) and following another (a STEM career)?

Parish: I never really had any issues being a cheerleader and a math major because most of the math and science majors were athletes, campus models and dancers. I would tell them that being a math geek is beautiful and everyone loves a girl with beauty and brains.

Along these lines, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Parish: I would tell myself not to become frustrated with math or science. These areas of learning were created for trial and error, critical thinking, and many mistakes along the way.

Best cheerleading experience?

Parish: My best experience was traveling to Jamaica to spread the love of cheerleading and teach the positives of being a DIVA (Determined Individual with Valuable Ambition). It was through the Rudi Johnson Foundation a then-player of the Cincinnati Bengals. We were asked in 2007 to join them as they traveled down to the islands as they conducted football and basketball camps with the help of other professional athletes. At the time they didn’t have anything for the young girls so having someone do a cheering camp and it being the VSU Woo Woos was a blessing. It was such a success they asked us to join them again the following summer!

Best science-related experience?

Parish: I would have to say completing the math classes needed for my major. I am an Algebra girl and getting through Calculus was a challenge but getting through it was the best.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Parish: I’m a math teacher looking to grow in my career and my love for cheering. What else can I say I LOVE cheering and dance! I also think that the Science Cheerleaders will have such a positive effect on young girls!

Credit: Alma Radocaj

Here’s an audio interview conducted by Michael Doornbos, founder of Evadot (a collaborative site exploring promising opportunities for the future). Explains how SciCheer and its sister site, Science For Citizens, got started and where we’re going.

The Science Cheerleaders – professional cheerleaders pursuing science and technology careers – often are asked, “What’s it like to be a cheerleader AND a scientist?” or “When did you first know you wanted to be an engineer?”

During our live events, fans and youngsters have the opportunity to ask questions and get them answered by the Science Cheerleaders on the spot. Now, we’re extending this opportunity to you, too!

The 2011-2012 Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders, six of whom are pursuing science and engineering careers, have offered to answer the most popular questions submitted through Tuesday August 23rd. Questions with the most votes from the public will be answered by the cheerleaders during a videotaped interview at their Tempe, AZ, training facility.

You can submit your questions to these Science Cheerleaders by tweeting to @SciCheer or commenting on this blog post, the YouTube video, or our Facebook Page. Extra points to anyone who leaves a YouTube video response. If you like someone else’s question, retweet it, up vote it, like it — whatever you have to do to let them know you’d like that question answered.

Below, each of the Arizona Cardinals Science Cheerleaders has shared a little about themselves. Take a look and then ask ‘em anything by August 23rd.

Hi, I’m Samantha, and I’m not just you’re average cheerleader; I’m studying Engineering Management with a focus in Mechanical Engineering at Arizona State University. I am also a national member of the Society of Women Engineers and currently interning at Microchip Technology. This is my rookie year as an Arizona Cardinals Cheerleader, but I have been dancing my whole life and even won the national pom championship my senior year of high school.

Hi, my name is Kristi, and I work professionally in the two best professions anyone could ask for: cheerleading and science! I started cheerleading when I was very young, continued throughout high school and college,and now I am a proud second year member of the Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders. Outside of cheerleading, I obtained a Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree and am blessed to currently work in my third year as a Registered Nurse with emphasis on Women and Infant services.

My name is Emily, and I am studying Biomedical Engineering at Arizona State University. I am currently an intern at Intel and love it, but hope one day to work on research and development in medical technology after receiving a Masters degree. This is my first year on the Arizona Cardinals cheer team, but I was Captain of my varsity high school team, part of the dance company and cheer for all four years, and was a part of the Arizona State University Spirit Squad for one year.

Hi, my name is Maria, and I am a rookie member of the 2011 Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders. I graduated from Rice University with a degree in political science and earned my J.D. from the University of Arizona in 2010. When it’s not gameday, you can find me at work as an Advocacy Specialist for the Girl Scouts, where I collaborate with local lawmakers on policies to provide increased exposure to the national STEM initiative. Helping to promote the next generation of female scientists, engineers, IT professionals, and mathematicians is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job!

Hi, I’m Nicole, and I am a fourth year member and line captain for the Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders. I studied kinesiology and earned my Bachelor of Science degree from Arizona State University. When I am not on the field, you can find me at a local physical therapy clinic working hands on with the science and physiology behind body movement.

My name is Jacque, and I am a Licensed Professional Civil Engineer who received my B.S.E. in Civil Engineering from Arizona State University. I have been cheerleading since the age of five, and I am proud and honored to now be a professional cheerleader and a rookie member of the amazing Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders.