By Sol Rosito (current MS&PC member from Argentina)
When my husband got a job at MIT, we moved to Boston, excited for the new chapter in our lives. However, the reality of remote work quickly set in, and our social life gradually diminished. It was during this challenging time that I discovered MS&PC (MIT Spouses & Partners Connect). Feeling the need to boost my career and find a job as a mathematician with a PhD, I decided to meet with Jennifer, who was incredibly supportive.
Jennifer’s encouragement led me to start attending the events offered by MS&PC—weekly meetings, breakfasts, outings—all of which became enriching experiences for me. During one of these events, I met Vika, who made me feel especially welcome with her warmth and kindness.
Being added to the MITFamilies Slack space proved to be a turning point. Through it, I learned about a job opportunity as an instructor for the MIT Introduction Technology, Engineering, and Science. Although I was initially apprehensive, I decided to apply, and after being interviewed, I was selected for the position. This decision led to an incredible experience where I had the opportunity to design a course from scratch on the mathematics of machine learning. I fondly remember my students and the motivation I felt to give them my best.
The experience and connections I gained through this teaching role opened new doors for my professional career. Today, I am proud to have a full-time job at the Harvard School of Public Health and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where I can apply my mathematical expertise to research that addresses significant challenges affecting us all. I wake up each morning energized and eager to start my workday.
Looking back, I feel deeply grateful to MS&PC. The stimulating conversations with other members in similar situations, Jennifer’s insightful reading recommendations, Vika’s ever-positive attitude, the cultural learning I gained, and the joy of joining the MIT Women’s Chorale have all been invaluable. Not to mention the practical advice I received about activities in Boston and the discounts MIT offers.
This community has been a lifeline, and I truly don’t want to lose contact with it.