The Breidinger Sisters

FEATUREAlumnae Spotlight What aspect of Mercy High School did you like the most? Annie: My favorite aspect of Mercy was that I never felt judged for being myself, and I was given the tools I needed to

What is it like to be a woman in your field?

Annie: Although it may seem like transitioning from an all-girls school to a male-dominated field was difficult, I had almost no issues getting accustomed to the change in environment. At Mercy, I was never treated differently for being a female in a highlevel Math class, and I carried this mindset and confidence with me as I completed my Engineering courses. Oftentimes I rarely even noticed gender in the classroom. For example about three weeks into my Machine Design Lab at Purdue, I looked around the classroom and noticed that I was one of two women in a room of 30 people. I didn't feel intimidated; I reminded myself that I was just as capable at excelling in this field.

Toni: I’ve never singled myself out at the track as a female surrounded by males. The track doesn’t know gender, the car doesn’t know gender, so gender is irrelevant. There have been times when I’ve experienced some discrimination and heard people make comments. I ignore it. I know it’s there, but I don’t pay attention to or give energy to negative people who say things behind my back just because I’m a female. At the end of the day, we’re all drivers on the same track racing towards the same goal. realize my full potential. More specifically, AP Chemistry was the class that initially made me realize what I was truly capable of. I almost didn't sign up for it when scheduling my classes, because I was scared of failure. I thought I wasn't "smart enough" but Dr. Bradley and my peers pushed me to challenge myself and take the course. It ended up being one of my favorite classes at Mercy, and it led me to pursue more high-level STEM courses. Toni: My favorite thing about Mercy is how much it empowered me— and of course the sisterhood! Mercy taught us that girls can do anything, and it was put into practice everyday at school. Mercy girls are captains of their teams, school ambassadors, and leaders in the classroom. At Mercy, girls fill every leadership position and participate in every sport and activity. As a Mercy girl, you never imagine a world where girls are less capable.

What advice would you give current Mercy students?

Annie: Don't be too comfortable, and don't be afraid of challenges. Most of the time, pursuing what you are passionate about will not be an easy path. However, there is nothing worse than the regret of not trying. So don't let the fear of failure deter you from going after your dreams. Toni: Go do it. Be the girl that actually goes and does it. Sometimes we can be our own worst enemies whether it’s from fear or anxiety or both. Whether your dream is to race or to do something that’s out of the norm, be confident in yourself. The best way to gain self-confidence is to do what you’re afraid to do. Don’t let that fear hold you back from something that is your passion and your dream. Even if you’re the first one to do it.