Name: Stephanie Roach

What is your position at NSF?

At NSF, I am a Program Assistant in the Division of Integrative Organismal Systems (IOS).

How did you hear about NSF?

I first learned about NSF while interning at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. While there I learned about the different U.S. agencies involved in funding basic science research. I am excited to see how NSF promotes the progress of science and grow my understanding of IOS.

What is your background in?

I recently received a Master’s in Global Communication from George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs with a focus on Public Diplomacy and Asia. While I don’t have a background in STEM, I have slowly been circling STEM related institutions. Including my previous work for the Air Force, I also completed a fellowship with the UNESCO project office in Myanmar, under the education unit for six months. Prior to coming to NSF, I spent 5 plus years overseas working in China, Cambodia and Myanmar.

Do you have any hobbies that you do in your free time?

When I’m not at work I enjoy playing volleyball and am looking forward to getting back into playing ultimate frisbee once the weather warms up a bit.

What is something that you would like people to know about you?

I like to tell people that I have 15 brothers and sisters…they just aren’t technically related to me. Since high school my mother and I have hosted international exchange students from over 10 different countries. For a year these students live with us and become part of the family. Many of them have come back to visit even after they finish their exchange year and last summer, we went to our first wedding for my Austrian sister!