What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
Immediately after graduating from Stanford I joined HP Labs in Palo Alto. I learned how to apply research skills to real world problems. [I] also learned how to work in and lead a team. Most importantly, I learned the HP way. That the people ARE the corporation - for e.g., employees willing to take a paycut to avoid layoffs, the value of trusting people, the value of investing in the long term growth of people. That to be in business for the long haul the company needs to be built around a stable and dedicated workforce.

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire? Why?
My mother. She represents to me the ability to balance a family, career, and interests. She taught me that I should always strive to be among the best - and that gender barriers can be overcome.

What is your favorite book?
Calvin and Hobbes collections - for its imagination and creativity.

What do you see as the single most interesting element of your work?
Learning new things. Particularly in a startup like Tavant that is full of smart people working on a emerging area, the opportunities are endless.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?
Being a mother, wife, working in a startup and staying sane.

What was your greatest challenge and what did you learn from it?
"finishing" my PhD.

Not to go for a second PhD :)

What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?

• Prioritize
• Follow the prioritization
• Take a long term perspective - what will I care about 10 years from now

What advice would you give to young women who want to enter your field?
Be yourself and go about your work life without constantly being conscious of your being a woman in a technical field.