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Interview with Danyka Byrnes
Doctoral Student
Danyka Byrnes is pursuing a PhD at the University of Waterloo. She studied Environmental Engineering for her undergraduate degree. She then specialized in water resources in graduate school, focusing on the hydrology and biogeochemistry of human-impacted systems. Her future goals include working at a University institution. She sees herself in a research and teaching type of role.
What industry do you work/plan to work in?
I am currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Waterloo, and I would like to work at a
University institution. I see myself in a research and teaching type of role. However, I believe
serendipity (luck) always has a role to play in my career path, and I try to be open to
opportunities as they come.
I am a curious person, and being in research has allowed me to question and learn constantly. I
have had the opportunity to work for consulting firms and government agencies. Despite that
work being integral to our society, I’ve found that I was always wondering what more could be
done. Few things are more exciting and rewarding to me than being able to nudge the boundaries
of science every day.
I would also be remiss not to acknowledge the benefits of the flexible schedule in academia. I
gladly work weekends to later take a long weekend, permitting me to get out of the city and into
the backcountry to hike or ski.
What is your major? How did you decide this was right for you?
I studied Environmental Engineering in my undergraduate degree. I specialized in water
resources in graduate school, focusing on the hydrology and biogeochemistry of human-
impacted systems. I did not know this specialty existed as a high school student or even during
my undergraduate studies. However, I always sought a path where I could use science to
advocate for environmental justice and protection.
I am the first person from my family to pursue an engineering degree, so in the beginning, I
didn’t have anyone close to me to model a potential career path. In high school, I did not know
what an engineer was or what they did – let alone an environmental engineer. I recall my grade
11 science teacher telling me that I might be interested in engineering after I prompted her with a
question about the types of careers that solve environmental problems.
I, truthfully, didn’t realize it was the right fit for me until graduate school, where I could begin to
understand how my education, skills, and passions could weave together to carve out my
research areas. Water is one of the most precious resources we have, and it’s a privilege to be
part of a community of people who work to advocate for its protection.
What was your educational experience like as a STEM major?
As a TA, I have had students openly disrespect me and call into question my experience and
knowledge. One time, a male student told me to “go read a book” because I was unfamiliar with
the topic we were discussing. At the time, I blamed myself and felt ashamed. However, I
recognize that people frequently question women’s ability, especially Black, Indigenous, and
women of Color. Today, I work to remind myself not to internalize people’s doubts because it,
frankly, has nothing to do with me.
With that being said, I am privileged to have had a good experience during my education. As a
white woman who is typically regarded as outspoken, I have had a lot of encouragement and
support from my professors and colleagues. I have had a supportive network of family, friends,
and mentors who have helped me get to where I am today.
Hard work (and luck) led to my academic successes, but it also required some sacrifices. In
hindsight, was it worth it? Probably not. Balance is key. Working hard was necessary, but I think
I could have applied Pareto’s Principle – 80% of success is achieved with 20% of the effort. Our
social lives, interests, and extracurricular activities are a fundamental part of who we are as
individuals, and this diversity in activities can make us more resilient to perceived failure. For
example, if you received a bad grade, it might not be so world-shattering if you are successful in
another aspect of your life. Knowing our interests and strengths can help us guide us in our
careers and find a place where we can shine!
What has been your best and most challenging experience in the STEM field?​
It’s hard to pick one single best experience. My favorite moments from the past three years are
the times spent with my colleagues and friends at scientific conferences, working together, and
geeking out about water science for an entire week. The exhilarating feeling that comes from
working with your colleagues on a novel project is unmatched!
Along with many people, I struggle with impostor syndrome – a phenomenon where you don’t
think you are as competent as others perceive you. Many days I feel like I tricked everyone into
thinking I know what I am doing, and it’s only a matter of time before someone finds out that I
do not belong. These feelings are made worst because of how taboo it is for people to discuss
failure. We only see people’s highlight reel (awards, acceptances, etc.) and while we are very
aware of our own failures.
What is helping me fight this is to remind myself of everything I have accomplished. I will often
scroll through my resume and remind myself that I’ve worked hard to get to where I am right
now. Secondly, to counteract the impostor syndrome, it helps to have a network of friends and
mentors with who you can share your insecurities and hype you up when you are questioning
yourself.
Did you notice a gender disparity within your college classes?
Fortunately, in my environmental engineering classes, we had gender parity. I am fortunate to
have worked alongside some intelligent engineers!
However, the work is not done. I see fewer women leadership positions, positions that I may
want to strive for one day. This disparity is worst for Black, Indigenous, and Women of Colour.
We have a lot of work to do to make our communities not hostile towards women and women of
Colour.
Do you have any advice for young women (in middle/high school) that plan to major in STEM?
Find yourself a mentor and start building a network of professional friends. I would suggest
young women reach out to people with similar interests. Ask for opportunities and advice on
how you might be able to explore this path and interest. I suggest choosing mentors from various
career stages. Start by asking an undergraduate student! As a PhD student, I have more time than
many full-time professors to find my mentees’ opportunities.
What stopped me from finding a mentor was that I felt that I had nothing to offer them. Now that
I am a mentor to students, I realized that all I expect from my mentees is to come prepared with
questions to have a productive chat… That’s it!
If you can’t find a mentor, that’s okay! I would suggest jumping on to social media (I’m very
active on Twitter) and follow scientists. Many of my colleagues and I share internship
opportunities, webinars, podcasts, courses, tutorials, and so much more. Get involved in your
community!
Exposing yourself to the community will show you paths and opportunities that you don’t even
know existed.
Any additional comments?
All you need to be successful in STEM is an interest in STEM. It’s okay if you are not
exceptional at maths or sciences (…I got a 65% in grade 11 math!). An interest in STEM will
sustain you. Everything else, you can work hard and learn.
Thank you!
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