Astrophysicist Sarafina El-Badry Nance Opens Up About Her Enduring Struggle with Impostor Syndrome in the Field of Astronomy

**Title: Growing up as a Woman of Color in the World of Science: Sarafina El-Badry Nance’s Memoir “Starstruck”**

Egyptian-American astrophysicist Sarafina El-Badry Nance’s debut memoir, “Starstruck,” provides a unique glimpse into the experiences of a woman of color navigating the world of science. With a passion for cosmology and a commitment to advocating for women’s health, Nance’s memoir combines personal anecdotes with scientific explanations about the universe. In this article, we explore Nance’s journey, the challenges she faced, her passion for astronomy, the importance of representation in STEM fields, her decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy, and her thoughts on impostor syndrome.

**Passion for Astronomy: Finding Solace in the Night Sky**

Nance’s fascination with astronomy began at a young age. Drawn in by the ethereal voice of a presenter on the US National Public Radio show called StarDate, she found solace in the vastness of the night sky. As a child dealing with anxiety, the sense of insignificance she felt while gazing at the stars provided her with a reprieve from the pressures of daily life. This connection with the cosmos has remained with her throughout her life.

**Challenges Faced by Women and Minorities in STEM**

Nance’s journey in the field of science has not been without obstacles. As a woman of color, she encountered numerous instances of discrimination and alienation. From being told as a 10-year-old that “astronomy isn’t for you” to enduring inappropriate jokes from a physics professor, these experiences created a deep-seated belief that she did not belong in the field. The cumulative effect of such incidents can lead to impostor syndrome and hinder the progress of women and minorities in STEM.

**Importance of Representation and Allyship**

To address the underrepresentation of women and people of color in STEM, Nance emphasizes the need to challenge the notion that they are not interested in these fields. Additionally, she highlights the importance of allies who can support individuals throughout their journey. Nance acknowledges the role of her mentors, who happened to be white men, in using their privilege to provide her with opportunities. Dismantling systems of oppression requires those with privilege and power to step up.

**Embracing Individual Choices: The Controversy of Preventive Double Mastectomy**

Nance’s decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy and breast reconstruction stemmed from her family’s history of cancer and the discovery that she carried the BRCA2 genetic mutation. Though the procedure is controversial and not a guaranteed preventative measure, Nance chose it to reduce her risks and alleviate the anxiety caused by regular monitoring. She acknowledges that the decision varies for each individual, and different factors need to be considered.

**Body Positivity and Self-empowerment**

In an unexpected move, Nance participated in a swimsuit photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2022. Rejecting the objectification of women often associated with such magazines, she did it as a means of reclaiming her body and establishing a positive relationship with it. While society tends to place value on a woman’s physical appearance, Nance firmly believes that a woman’s worth extends far beyond her body.

**Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: Shifting the Perspective**

Impostor syndrome, a common experience for women and minorities, significantly impacted Nance’s life, leading to anxiety and panic attacks. However, her understanding of this syndrome has evolved. Rather than blaming herself for feeling inadequate, Nance recognizes that these feelings arise from being in spaces that were not designed for someone like her. By reframing her narrative, she aims to challenge the system that perpetuates these feelings of exclusion.

**PhD Focus and Future Endeavors**

Nance is currently pursuing her PhD at the University of California, Berkeley, focusing on the study of exploding stars or supernovae. Her research aims to determine the current rate of expansion of the universe by studying Type IIP supernovae. Nance’s passion for science, space, and communication will guide her future endeavors beyond her PhD.

**Advice for Aspiring Female Astronomers**

Nance encourages young women interested in pursuing a career in astronomy to disregard any negativity they encounter. No one has the right to determine their worth or dictate their passions. While systemic challenges may arise, as long as they feel safe and find fulfillment in their work, they should continue to pursue their dreams.

In conclusion, Sarafina El-Badry Nance’s memoir “Starstruck” provides a powerful narrative of her journey as a woman of color in the field of science. It sheds light on the challenges faced by underrepresented groups, emphasizes the importance of representation and allyship, and offers insights into personal decision-making processes. Nance’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring scientists and serves as a call to action for achieving greater inclusivity in STEM fields.