9555832 Nair This project proposes to complete a manuscript of a "Field Guide to Women in Science and Engineering." These "Voices from the Field" are personal stories of women scientists and engineers aimed at a large and diverse audience of middle school and high school girls, through undergraduate and graduate students, and professional women. The book is based on interviews--conducted by telephone or in person--with these women. In choosing the scientists and engineers to be interviewed, we have tried to include a spectrum of women with respect to ethnic heritage as well as types of career path and achievement. We believe that this book can provide a unique resource for girls and women by conveying the real and diverse pathways to and experiences in a career in science or engineering. The Sloan Foundation funded the first year of this effort. Attachment 1 includes six of the profiles completed. Each profile charts the woman's life as related by her, narrating personal and professional aspirations, difficulties, milestones, and achievements. In addition, several of them draw lessons from her life to guide young women who wish to work in science and engineering. ***
