How do you pronounce swilley?
It rhymes with “silly.” It’s my maiden name. There’s a Lough Swilly in Ireland. I went there once expecting to find other Swilleys/Swillys. I was told there are none. Then I found out the name comes from the name of the Monster with Several Hundred Eyes, the Súileach, that lived in the River Swilly until Saint Columba chopped it in half. You know, kind of like Smith.
Are you a scientist?
No. I have worked with hundreds of scientists since 2003 to help them communicate their research with students, teachers, and the general public. But I really, really like science. That counts, right?
Why didn’t you become a scientist?
I almost became a chemical engineer, but then some kid told me I’d be stuck in a lab and never get to talk to anyone or travel. I like doing those things, so I majored in intercultural communication. In the end, that’s kind of still what I do. STEM professionals kind of have their own culture.
Will you present at my event/class?
Maybe… If I can justify the expense to my boss. ;)