We’re highlighting WISCIENCE staff members so you can find out more about the extraordinary people who make our work possible! In this spotlight, meet Miranda Mellen.

Your role at WISCIENCE:
Program Coordinator

When you started at WISCIENCE:
April 2023

Your academic background:
I earned my Bachelor’s of Science in Biotechnology from UW–River Falls (UWRF). I then returned to UWRF to complete their STEMteach graduate program and received my teaching certificate in Biology education.

Your hometown:
Oregon, Wisconsin

What are your interests and hobbies?
I love to read with my favorite genres being contemporary fiction, fantasy, and science fiction. I also enjoy playing video games—some of my favorites are Stardew Valley, Sims 3, Fallout 4, and Baldur’s Gate 3. Crafting is another thing I really enjoy. Lately I’ve been enjoying diamond painting and needle felting.

Who is in your household?
I live with my partner, Patrick, and my 8 year old cat, Poppy.

In 1-2 sentences, how would you describe your job?
I help all of our program directors with logistical needs of their programs and courses. Whether that is reserving spaces, updating documents, preparing materials, planning events, or communicating with individuals across campus. I also help keep the WISCIENCE office running by maintaining our spaces, ordering supplies, managing our budget, and tackling all the random administrative tasks that may arise.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?
I often do a lot of work in the background to make sure that events, courses, and programs run smoothly. It’s always really rewarding when I hear that an event went well or even better than originally planned. It makes me feel like all of my hard work paid off.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting in your field?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! When doing administrative work, there are a lot of procedures and rules to learn. It takes a lot of time and it is normal to make mistakes. Asking questions is essential for learning the right steps and getting comfortable with how things work.

Growing up, what was your dream job?
I’ve always loved science and often came up with different thoughts on what my dream job would be. Some of the highlights were: marine biologist, astronomer, and crime lab technician.

What’s your favorite workday snack?
I always keep a dish of candy in my office. When I’ve completed a big task or project, I like to reward myself with a sweet treat 🙂 I also love when people stop by my office and help themselves as well!

What’s on your workday playlist?
When I really need to focus, I’ll put on instrumental electro-funk music. It’s high energy and keeps me motivated to get through a tough project.