#ChooseToChallenge Part 2

Today is International Women's Day 2021.

The 2020 Oxford Uni fresher cohort marked 100 years since women received degrees. Today the TOG team #ChooseToChallenge with the women of past, present and future. It is by challenging that positive change occurs.

Let me introduce you to some more truly inspiring women currently studying at Oxford Uni:

“This International Women’s Day I #ChooseToChallenge gender bias and inequality in traditionally male dominated fields such as archaeology. I celebrate the achievements of the women who came before me, paving the way so I could have the opportunity to study at one of the top institutions in the world (@oxforduni) and follow my professional dreams.” Elizabeth Hotz, Master of Science in Archaeology, St. Catherine’s College, @ehotzz

“Well-behaved women seldom make history.” Mary, Biochemistry, Somerville, @sisters_at_oxford

“A successful woman is one who can build a firm foundation with the bricks others throw at her.” Abbie, St Peter’s College, Earth Sciences, @sisters_at_oxford

“I #choosetochallenge gender inequalities in science. Historically too many incredible women have gone unnoticed as their discoveries were credited to men.” Lizzie Bateman, Chemistry, Hertford, @lizzie.bateman “This International Women’s Day I feel proud to be standing on the shoulders of heroines. It’s because of the fight of so many women in history that opportunities and doors have been open to me today, specifically in the STEM world ️” Bridget Donaldson, MSc Engineering Science, Hertford College, @life.with.bee “I want to choose to challenge myself in any discipline I like, and challenge those who doubt me!” Dalia Sara Gala, DPhil Biochemistry, Merton, @dalia.science

“The freedom to choose their own destiny and life is a basic human right that women have been denied for centuries now. It is high time we break that cycle.” Mahnoor, DPhil in Oncology, Wolfson, @mahnoor521

“Involving women in urban development will make our cities better for everyone. Women plan and design with diversity and different needs in mind. Participatory processes are essential for the planning of the city that works for everyone. If we let citizens that are rarely heard be experts, our cities and communities will become more inclusive, equal and sustainable.” Shweta Gandhi , MSc Sustainable Urban Development, Harris Manchester College, @shwetagandhi29

“Dear woman, every voice matters, so let yours be heard! Strive for more, celebrate your achievements and inspire others! Change comes from an individual, so let's choose to challenge - which I do as part of Oxford University's 100th female student cohort. #ChooseToChallenge” Nevena, MSc Contemporary Chinese Studies, Hertford, @nevenaskobic

“International Women's Day is not about beauty and femininity; it should remind women that they don't need men's approval to be successful and love themselves.” Vlada,

MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies, Lady Margaret Hall @vladacanglong

“We ask you as women to be confident in your experiences. Remember that it is not just you that is suffering, but it can be you that stops others suffering by speaking out and choosing to challenge.” Oxford Break the Glass Ceiling @oxfordbreaktheglassceiling

“Being a women studying viruses at the university of Oxford signifies the change we have made over the decades. As more and more women pursue and champion careers in science, we can continue to make tangible change against gender roles and stereotypes, and make what once was a male-dominated career into just a career. #choosetochallenge.” Lizzie, DPhil Medical Sciences, Wolfson College, @liz.thescientist “IWD provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of women and raise awareness of the inequality that still exists.” Izzy Leitch, DPhil in Molecular Cell Biology in Health and Disease, Lincoln college, @isabelleitch