Librae is a community organized by women for women. It is dedicated to fostering gender equality among students in STEM*. We achieve this by empowering female students with a robust network that links them to inspirational role models, each other, and their own potential.
*STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Why we exist
There’s a high demand for more women in technology and leadership positions, and the number of female students at the TU Delft has been increasing. To ensure female students get the most out of their time at university, are confident and well prepared when they enter the job market, we have created a network to support female students in STEM. Role models are essential for the network to inspire and teach students by sharing their experiences.
What we do
January 15
Librae dinners
During the Librae kick-off event in November 2019, 50 students had the opportunity to meet 15 inspiring role models with a broad range of backgrounds. In the academic year 2020/21, we hosted a diverse range of events on themes such as; female entrepreneurship, finding the right job and personal finance. Each year we organise two dinners for students to meet inspirational rolemodels in a close and personal setting.
Mentorship programme
In September 2020, we launched our first mentorship programme and are now organising two yearly programs for students in the final phase of their studies (end of bachelor's / master's). During this programme, 10-30 students are matched with a mentor based on their interests and background. Our mentors, who are experienced women in STEM fields, are not recruiters but enthusiastic individuals genuinely committed to guiding young women as they embark on their careers or pursue their aspirations. During the mentor-mentees meetings, students can talk to their mentors about personal development, career orientation, and their goals for the future. On top of that, there are sessions in which mentees connect and exchange experiences or advice, which we call Librae Circles.
Some interesting facts
Women often feel they may only apply for a job if they meet 100% of the criteria, whereas men are likely to apply for a job if they meet 60% of the criteria.
Women are more likely to be called bossy or aggressive, whereas men are seen as assertive and passionate leaders. There is a correlation between likeability and competence, women that are competent are often seen as less likeable.
Only 7% of women negotiate their first salary, whereas for men it’s 57%. Want to learn how to negotiate, check out our mentorship programme.
Partners
