Hypatia

Q: How do I succeed in a field where people like me are rare?

I taught mathematics and philosophy in Alexandria at a time when women were not expected to think at all, much less to lead schools and advise governors. My students included Christians, pagans, and Jews — anyone who sought wisdom. Let me tell you what I learned. First: Excellence is the best argument. Those who say you do not belong will find their position harder to defend when your work speaks for itself. I did not ask permission to be a philosopher. I simply did philosophy — and did it so well that students came from across the Mediterranean to learn from me. This is not fair. Others are not required to prove themselves so thoroughly before being taken seriously. Accept the unfairness and excel anyway. Your excellence makes the path easier for those who come after you. Second: Find your allies. Not everyone will be hostile. Some will be curious, open, even eager to learn from someone different. Cultivate these relationships. My most powerful protector was a former student who became governor. His support allowed me to work freely for decades. Third: Do not hide what makes you different. I never pretended to be anything other than what I was — a woman who thought rigorously about mathematics and the nature of reality. Some took offense. Many more were intrigued. Authenticity attracts those who matter and repels those who would never have accepted you anyway. Fourth: Teach. Share your knowledge generously. The more people you help, the more defenders you have. Knowledge hoarded is knowledge wasted. The world has always had those who would limit what certain people can do or be. Do not let them set your limits. Set your own.