HERE AT THE XYLOM, WE LOVE STORYTELLING.
We invite scientists to share personal, authentic stories outside of their research to reveal their human side. We want everyone to experience the impact and diversity of science by being curious about who scientists really are. Because we know great things happen when we connect scientists with people. Our contributors from 14 countries and regions will agree!
All scientists are humans. Humans tell stories. The Xylom is the place for scientists to tell their stories.
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MY PRESENCE HERE IS PRETTY UNLIKELY.
My grandfather fled from China during the War and landed up in Hong Kong, a small city of a thousand square miles, but now home to seven million. When my parents grew up, they didn't have access to their own kitchens and toilets. My dad's biggest dream as a kid was to have a study table. Let's be honest -- why would you care about science if you're worried about making ends meet?
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Now I'm majoring in Environmental Engineering at Georgia Tech, as a Lee Hysan Memorial Scholar and HKSES Scholar. I'd never thought that I was different from anyone else; however, when I first got to college, I was shocked to find out that I was the only first-generation college student in my orientation group. I was, and still am, painfully reminded of how science fields as not as inclusive as they could be. Outside of school, I also sickened by how some perfectly nice folks are reluctant to accept research-backed science.
On the flip side, I'm aware of how my unique background -- an Asian kid, born and raised Christian, who definitely did not have a silver spoon in my mouth -- could be helpful in connecting scientists with communities. Those who understand the least about science are often the most impacted. It is my calling to make sure that they understand how their lives will be transformed, also what they could do to be a part of it and reap the most benefits.
Storytelling was how I learned English. Stories made me understand how science affects me and how I too could make a change. They are not something you could dispute but provide a window into what makes us human. I'm sure that you will be inspired by our personal, authentic stories of scientists outside of their research, just as how my life has been made different.
WE ARE RECOGNIZED INTERNATIONALLY.
We've been featured by top-tier institutions, republished by industry publications, and shortlisted for awards. That's because we are committed to changing the world one personal, authentic story at a time.
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WE CAN CHANGE THE WORLD TOGETHER.
Sharing your personal, authentic story outside of your research takes courage. But when you take the leap of faith, not only are you impacting the lives of your readers, you can experience personal growth, build your community, and improve your communication skills. See what our audience has to say:
I think [Scientists, Meet Twitter!] is the best guide I've come across! Really wonderful job! This will [definitely] be my go-to resource for folks interested in Twitter!
Quoted from a scientist on Twitter
[Scientists, Meet Twitter! is a great] resource... I like that you’ve included specific examples to illustrate your [take-home] messages. That’s a helpful approach for new and experienced tweeps.