The Women in Science, Discovery and Medicine Committee hosted an event where Dr Ranjana Srivastava OAM encouraged fellow STEM community members to broaden their horizons. Sharing her experience, Dr Ranjana Srivastava OAM inspired WiSDoM attendees with practical advice.
From being a Geriatric Oncologist at Monash Health, to writing a column for The Guardian, writing a book, and taking care of her three children, Dr Srivastava challenges herself constantly. By being encouraged by her mentor to start writing, Dr Ranjana Srivastava says it was her first Fulbright Scholarship that kick-started her career in completely new territory, leading her to focus on connecting with her readers and improving health literacy.
Being particularly interested in psychology and time management, the busy doctor, author, mother and columnist mentioned the constant tension she feels trying to balance all her roles and how balance is critical to a long and healthy life.
Dr Srivastava advises her fellow STEM community to employ stories and memories when communicating, as it gives an ‘in’ to a reader’s attention. By listening to one’s audience and envisioning them as eager intellectuals, Dr Srivastava revealed the importance of managing the growing divide between science and the public, urging the medical community to bridge the gap.
Hailing from India, Dr Ranjana looks forward to changing the landscape of poverty and medical expenditure by educating doctors in meaningful public health policies.
