Olivia Konell

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

The environment you create as a leader has a direct impact on how people engage with their work. Having worked in industry these past few years, I’ve realized when communication is unclear or people feel disconnected from the larger purpose of their work, it’s hard to stay motivated – even when the work itself is important. These experiences have helped me reflect on the kind of leader I want to be: someone who fosters clarity, connection, curiosity, and accessibility. I feel most fulfilled in educational and academic environments, where I can help others learn, grow, and feel excited about chemistry.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

One of the most meaningful milestones in my journey came during my last semester as an undergrad. While working as a teaching assistant (TA) for the organic chemistry and biochemistry labs, I was given the opportunity to lead an entire lab session on my own. It was my first time teaching without direct supervision, and it made me feel excited and anxious simultaneously. However, as the session unfolded, something clicked. I found myself adjusting to the students’ needs, explaining concepts in different ways, and helping them troubleshoot in real time. I loved seeing those lightbulb moments happen – when something made sense or when a student gained confidence in their skills. That experience was a turning point for me. It was the first time I really saw myself as someone who could help others learn and grow in the field. It confirmed that I want education/academics to be a significant part of my career in chemistry. It reminded me that the lab isn’t just a place for experiments – it’s also a space for connection, curiosity, and shared discovery.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

My dream is to teach at the community college level or be a chemistry lab coordinator for a university. I’ve found that being in academic environments, whether in the classroom or the lab, is my happy place. It is incredibly fulfilling to support students, answer their questions, and watch them realize their potential in these settings. It gives me a sense of purpose that I’ve not experienced elsewhere. Reaching that goal won’t be easy. These positions are competitive, and I know I’ll need to continue building experience, strengthening my skills, and staying adaptable along the way. But I’m committed to the path. I’m looking for opportunities that align with my long-term goals and push me to grow, both as a chemist and an educator.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

During my last year as an undergrad, I designed and conducted a year-long research project that focused on identifying potential compounds with antidepressant activity. It was the first time I took the lead on a project from start to finish, and it really pushed me to grow as a researcher. Later that year, I presented my findings at the 2023 Spokane Intercollegiate Research Conference. Sharing my work with a broader audience was an eye-opening experience. It helped me see how research doesn’t just live in the lab, it also has the potential to touch people’s lives in a meaningful, real-world way. That experience deepened my interest in the intersection of science, health, and accessibility, and reminded me why I was drawn to STEM in the first place.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

Being part of AWIS has connected me with a community that shares my values around advancing equity in science. While I’m still early in my engagement, knowing there’s a network of women scientists advocating for representation, mentorship, and systemic change has been inspiring. It’s helped reinforce my commitment to fostering inclusion in every space I work in.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Cachái?

How do you define it?

It’s a Chilean slang word. It’s the English equivalent to “you know?”

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Though it might not seem tied to my career, “cachái?” has influenced how I think about communication, especially while teaching a chemistry concept. I learned it while studying Spanish. It reminds me to approach teaching a concept in a way that’s clear, approachable, and collaborative – always making space to check in with the student. Because it’s a casual word by nature, it reinforces the importance of creating a learning environment that feels open and supportive, both in the classroom and in the lab.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS plays an important role in shaping how I think about my career – not just in terms of advancement, but in contributing to a more inclusive scientific community. I see my membership as a step toward building connections, learning from other women’s experiences, and staying informed on efforts that affect our field. I’m excited to grow my involvement in the future as I continue developing my career.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

How to Take Over the World: Practical Schemes and Scientific Solutions for the Aspiring Supervillain by Ryan North.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

If you’re ever faced with the question, “Do you go for the job or do you go for your passion?” always choose your passion – because when you follow your passion, the job will eventually follow.

Olivia M. Konell is a chemist with experience in pharmaceutical quality assurance and analytical testing, currently working in QA compliance while pursuing her MS in chemistry through the University of Saint Joseph. She earned her BS in biochemistry with a minor in spanish from Gonzaga University, where she also served as a teaching assistant for general, organic, and biochemistry lab courses. Her research background includes projects in computational drug discovery and small molecule synthesis, with a focus on compounds that may have therapeutic activity. Olivia’s professional and academic experiences have shaped her passion for science education and mentorship. She aspires to teach chemistry (ideally at the community college level), where she can help make chemistry accessible, engaging, and inclusive for all students. Her goal is to create learning spaces that foster curiosity, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging in STEM.