'Big Bang Theory' Actress Loves Science, and You Should, Too: An Interview With Mayim Bialik

Randi Zuckerberg
Tue, 01 Jun 2021 21:00:00 -0700
Lifestyle

I've known Mayim Bialik for years, not just from her hit TV shows but as a caring, devout mother and dedicated human rights activist.

That's why I support this woman's work.
Updated: Tue Jun 01, 2021

I've known Mayim Bialik for years, not just from her hit TV shows but as a caring, devout mother and dedicated human rights activist.

That's why I support this woman's work.

Mayim Bialik may be best known for her current role as Amy Farrah Fowler on "The Big Bang Theory," or maybe it's her lead role in the 1990s sitcom "Blossom." Bialik is a mother of two boys, the founder of Grok Nation — oh, and she has a doctorate in neuroscience, too. No biggie.

1) How can we foster more interest in science, technology, engineering and math for girls?

I think broadening the way we teach STEM and talk about it is a great start. Introducing young girls to a variety of career possibilities in STEM at an early age is important in forming their opinions about what their life could actually look like. I also think learning about actual women who do amazing things in the STEM fields is a great way to stimulate interest in a life in those fields.

2) Who inspired your own love for science?

When I was 15, I had a biology tutor while I was working on the set of "Blossom." She was a dental student at the time at UCLA, and she is now a dental surgeon. She was incredibly enthusiastic and patient with me. She gave me not only the confidence that I could be a scientist but took the time to teach me science in a way I needed to learn it — and not the way it had previously been taught to me, which never worked for me.

3) Where do science and religion intersect?

The more I learn about science the greater awe and respect I have for the fact that human beings did not create this universe and everything in it. The more I study religious philosophy the more appreciation I have for the process of science and the wonders of the natural world.

4) What's the most challenging part of being a recognizable celebrity?

Wow, that's a tough question. I think the fact that I am a recognizable celebrity and also a mom trying to raise two sons out of the public eye is very challenging. I want to be present with them, but my life is also very busy. They are the most important job I have ever had, while being a recognizable celebrity is a perk of being an employed actress.

5) What should parents most pass on to their children?

In addition to all of the things we try and impart to children, I think reminding them that we are amateurs at being parents and that we are learning, too, is incredibly important. That humility can go a long way towards building a strong relationship with your children, even as you disagree with them about things as they mature and get more independent and challenging.