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Teresa Panurach
Astronomer, Michigan State University
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Learn how to advocate for yourself and never listen to the naysayers.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I'm an observational astronomer using radio and X-ray telescopes to analyze accreting binary systems with black holes and neutron stars.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
It wasn't until my early twenties where I began to figure out who I was and what I wanted to do with my life. I remembered I read an article on binary stars for a class project in high school. I was fascinated at how these systems form and interact with one another. It finally clicked that I could be the one that researches these kinds of objects. It was then I decided to pursue astronomy as my career.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
Growing up, I used to be afraid of failing which inhibited me from challenging myself and pursue new opportunities. I wish younger me would have known that there is power in failing and learning how to get back up again.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
The undergraduate students that I advise give me new reasons to stay in the field. They are an amazing bunch! I am so happy to be working with them and help them reach their fullest potential.
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
Learn how to advocate for yourself and never listen to the naysayers.
INSPO / FUN FACT
“Come celebrate with me that everyday
something has tried to kill me and has failed.”- Lucille Clifton