Diane Cauquil, Women in Science Scholarship Beneficiary

Academic Career and Motivations

“After my bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science at Paul Sabatier University in Toulouse, I applied for a master’s program in computer science at the ENS Paris-Saclay. The choice seemed obvious: I’ve always been fascinated by mathematics, but I discovered computer science a little later, in high school. The ENS Paris-Saclay offered a program that combined rigorous mathematical theory and applied computer science, in a variety of domains. This dual approach will allow me to study computer science from a theoretical and abstract angle while tackling real-world issues.”

Challenges of Being a Woman in Science

“I never really felt any hard pushback as a woman in scientific fields. That said, I was struck by the diminishing number of women around me the further I got in my studies: in high school, there were quite a few of us in the scientific option, but at university, during my bachelor’s degree, the percentage of women had already been cut in half. I felt that the lack of encouragement for young girls to pursue a scientific career often came from their surroundings: they aren’t always taught that they can picture that for themselves.”

What the Scholarship Brought Her

“This scholarship was much more than a financial support to live close to the School: it allowed me to focus entirely on my studies. On a personal level, it is incredibly motivating to know that a sponsor believes in my abilities and will stick by my side through this adventure. I have created precious bonds with other students who benefitted from this scholarship, and I had the opportunity to talk with young girls with a passion for science, just like I was. Finding the words to talk about this passion of ours, and talking about the challenges we encounter is a precious support, and it helps me carry on with confidence.”

Contributing and Inspiring

“ This scholarship makes me want to take part in the effort to make young women feel as free to choose their path for themselves as I was. I want to help in organizing events to encourage high school girls to follow their dreams and study things like computer science. I would love to tell them about their options, like “computer and numerical science” to discover computer science in high school.

To those who still aren’t sure of themselves, I would say: be curious, don’t give up at the first obstacle and keep going. Scientific careers can be challenging, but every step of the way brings with it incredible discoveries. For instance, when I learned that computer science was founded by Ada Lovelace, I felt so proud. The history of science is full of contributions from women, and they can all be a source of inspiration.”

Thanks

“I want to say thank you to my sponsor for the financial and moral support I’ve received, and whose impact I feel every day. Thanks to this scholarship, I have been able to focus entirely on my studies and to feel truly fulfilled in my passion for computer science, without worrying about material constraints. I am excited to meet those who made this program possible, and to tell them about the path I’ve carved for myself thanks to their generosity.”