Meet Glynis Perret
Glynis Perret, High School Physics and Mathematics Teacher, St. John’s-Kilmarnock School.
Glynis graduated with a Bachelor of Science, Physics (Geology minor) from the University of Guelph, '09; a PhD in Planetary Geochemistry, from the University of Guelph, '15; and a Bachelor of Education, Physics and Mathematics, Queen's University, '19.
A fun fact about Glynis is her role in researching and compiling the University of Guelph Physics department's monthly Star Gazing Guide, narrated by the Great Orbax. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Glynis continues to foster her love for astronomy and shares her passion with others through this project.
In her free time, she enjoys yoga, reading , backcountry camping, knitting, star gazing, and spenidng time with her boys. (husband, son, dog and cat)
When did your love of STEM begin?
My love of STEM began when I was quite young. When I was in grade 3 I remember learning about space and finding it very exciting. That year there was also a partial solar eclipse and my grade was quite involved with making eclipse viewers and learning all about it. That summer, while sitting on the dock one evening with my dad, we saw a "shooting star". My dad explained the difference between meteors and satellites and I saw my first constellation. This gave me a new perspective on our world. All of those events at such a young age ignited my interest in STEM, particularly space.
What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?
When I was in research, I loved digging into the data from the APXS instrument onboard the Opportunity and Curiosity Mars Rovers. Finding patterns and unearthing stories of what may have occurred on Mars in the past was so inspiring. Making connections with leading scientists to further our collective understanding was also a great part of working in STEM research. Now, as a Physics and Math teacher, the best part of my career is teaching the next generation of scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. I love helping them achieve their goals and seeing the "aha!" lightbulb moments.
What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?
My greatest piece of advice to young women interested in a career in STEM would be to find a female mentor in your field who can support and guide you through your early years. Having someone who has travelled a similar path to you can be invaluable when you hit some speed bumps along the way. You deserve to be in your chosen field and having someone to remind you of that is sometimes just what you need!
A Fun Fact about Glynis and her current role…
I do the research for the University of Guelph Physics department's monthly Star Gazing Guide, put together and narrated by the Great Orbax!
Some of Glynis’s Hobbies include…
Yoga, reading, backcountry camping, knitting, star gazing, and spending time with my boys (husband, son, dog, and cat!).