After TMU – Dr. Richa Siddavaatam

Why did you choose to study at Ryerson University?

The principle reason behind choosing TMU was excellent research opportunities in the area of “Wireless Communication”.  Additionally domain expert faculty members, state of the art library and other research resources, study space, graduate student support, financial support, excellent GA job opportunities, safe work-place environment, student friendly university policies are some of the reasons I chose TMU.

What are some skills you developed through university that are applicable to your career?

Apart from in-depth domain knowledge I developed other skills like verbal and written communication skills, presentation skills, research skills and improved math skills.

How did your experience at Toronto Metropolitan University help you find your first position after graduating?

Excellent research publications and teaching experience at TMU helped me to secure my first job after graduation.

What does a typical “Day in Your Work Life” look like? 

A typical day at work as a research scientist is full of learning new concepts, critical thinking over the technological problems at hand, designing solutions, interaction with peers and reviewing solutions designed by peers. Being a mom of 3 young kids, my day is completely filled with activities related to managing home and the family.

What are some attributes or skills required to be successful in your field of work?

Critical thinking, advanced math skills, persistence, written communication, presentation skills are some of the skills.

What advice would you give to young women interested in a career in STEM fields?

Nothing is impossible! Infinite career choices are waiting for you but you need to step out of your comfort zone. Do dream high, follow your passion, practice self-discipline and love your job.

How have your personal passions or interests influenced your career choices?

I have always been a bookworm. My passion for reading acted as a glue in my career building. As a child I used to be amazed by wonders of nature and technology. Flying Airplanes, mobile phones, computers and other wonders of science and technology had always infatuated me as a child. I had always wanted to be part of creating them. 

What are the best  parts of the work you do? What are the necessary evils (things you don’t really enjoy but have to do)?

Innovation and a dynamic environment are the best part of my job. Each day is different and unique at work. Each morning I will be working on a new problem and designing a technological solution for it. I don't find any necessary evils in my job as I always like to find rationale behind each necessary step.

If you could start all over again, would you change your career path in any way? Why/why not?

No. I won't change my career path in any way. Though I had some major hiccups in my career, the lessons learned from those mistakes and skills acquired during the distress time has helped me hone my skills to achieve my career goals. 

What do you wish you could tell your university self?

Be yourself and work hard. A diamond has to endure the pain of the cutting process to gain it's virtue.