In this episode, I talk with Apoorva Panidapu, a global speaker, researcher, and writer, about being a human calculator.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Apoorva Panidapu:

• How did you get started in what you are doing today?
• Can you elaborate on how you became known as the human calculator?
• What advice do you have for students who struggle with math and how can we make math more accessible and engaging for them?
• How can we address gender bias in early STEM education and encourage girls to pursue STEM careers? Can you share any personal experiences or success stories?
• What do you think are some of the biggest challenges Generation Z faces, especially in transitioning from school to college to the workplace? Are there specific skills they should focus on?
• What advice do you have for young people who aspire to make a difference in their communities and beyond?
• Can you share a mistake you made on your journey and what you learned from it?
• What is one thing people can start doing right away to get involved in STEM or improve their skills?
• Are there any tools or resources you recommend for those interested in STEM?
• How can people get in touch with you for more information or to stay updated on your work?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Being a Human Calculator:

• Early Start and Visibility: Apoorva's journey began at 12 years old when she appeared on NBC's Genius Junior, which gave her significant visibility and a platform to talk about gender bias in STEM.
• Becoming a Human Calculator: She earned the nickname due to her exceptional mental computation skills, learned through using the abacus, which helped her perform complex calculations quickly.
• Advice for Math Learners: Apoorva emphasizes making math relatable by connecting it with personal interests, like art or music, and encourages finding practical applications of mathematical concepts.
• Addressing Gender Bias in STEM: It's crucial to introduce young students to diverse role models and address unconscious biases early. Apoorva shares her own experiences of overcoming gender stereotypes and stresses the importance of visible representation.
• Generation Z Challenges: Gen Z seeks meaningful work and values personal connections, diversity, and environmental responsibility. They need to adapt quickly to new technologies and focus on continuous learning.
• Finding Hope and Curiosity: Apoorva highlights the importance of hope and curiosity, suggesting that young people should pursue their passions and remain

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.