Q&A: Atalanda Cameron
Atalanda Cameron, environmental science major, is one of the women featured as part of The Signal’s #HawkHerStory coverage, celebrating Women’s History Month. This special coverage focuses on the stories and perspectives of the various women within the UHCL community.
Read The Signal’s Q&A with Cameron below and see the other Q&As conducted with students, faculty, staff, administrators and alumni here.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself, on both a personal and professional/educational level?
A: I am Atalanda Cameron, an environmental science major with a biology specialization. I am also a research scientist with interests in prairie and wetland ecology and a multimedia specialist.
Q: What are some activities you enjoy doing?
A: Hiking is my favorite hobby, but also enjoy making music, photography, gardening, video podcasting, digital painting, and gaming.
Q: Are there modern-day women role models today you wish you had growing up?
A: There are so many it’s hard to choose a few!
I think we are fortunate to live in a time where women are leading in the sciences, politics, media, literature, and athletics. Since I am always growing as a person, I have many that currently inspire me. Off the top of my head, I’d name Angela Davis, Bell Hooks, Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, Maya Angelou, Mae Jemison, Kizzmekia Corbett, Bree Newsome Bass, Ava DuVernay, Regina King, Beyoncé–I could go on forever. These women have all inspired me to be a better person.
Q: What are some problems you anticipate/have encountered as a woman in your field?
A: I’ve been pretty fortunate so far. My first professional experience in environmental science was an internship at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and they make diversity and inclusion an essential part of their mission. My mentors have all encouraged me to put forth my best work and have built me up mentally and professionally.
STEM fields in general, however, have a long way to go to ensure that women can thrive in the field. We have to make sure that they know that their work is valued, their expertise is respected, and their time is well compensated. I am trying to be the change I want to see and push for equity in any way I can.
Q: What advice would you give to other women and young girls?
A: There’s a song by Nikka Costa, it’s called “Everybody Got Their Something” and it’s incredibly motivational. It’s about how everyone has something special that they contribute to this world, so once you find it, hold onto it. You don’t have to rush to figure out what it is, because you will know when you know. I think that’s something I’d tell anyone who’s still figuring out their purpose. Whatever it is, it’s important and so are you.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
A: I’m so thankful to be a part of the UHCL community. I’ve enjoyed my time here as a student and will carry my memories with me wherever I go. Thank you!
