Senior Madison Wang, a dual major in creative writing and chemistry, cultivated her enthusiasm for writing during her middle school years. Her fascination with chemistry seamlessly complemented her dedication to crafting captivating tales.
Wang is convinced that constructing fictional worlds grounded in science and research can enhance the reader’s immersion.
“In both science and writing, it’s essential to convey a compelling narrative,” she explains. “Audiences respond positively to stories.”
Hailing from Buffalo, New York, Wang applied for early action admission to MIT and quickly realized it was her ideal institution. “It suited me perfectly,” she remarks. “There was an uplifting energy and atmosphere, and I felt great overall.”
The influence of science and effective storytelling
“Chemistry is practical, intricate, and compelling,” asserts Wang. “It involves quantifying the laws of nature and grasping how the world operates.”
Both chemistry and writing assist in “perceiving the world’s anomalies,” she elaborates. Collectively, they can diminish the false and arbitrary boundary separating them, working in harmony to narrate a comprehensive tale about existence, how we contribute to its creation, and the interaction of people and objects within it.
“Grasping magnetism, understanding material properties, and embracing the magic of a good narrative … these are the reasons we seek to discover,” she states. “Chemistry explains why things are as they are, and I incorporate it into world-building for my creative pieces.”
Wang praises MIT’s creative writing program and highlights a course she attended with Comparative Media Studies/Writing Professor and Pulitzer Prize laureate Junot Díaz as a strong confirmation of her decision. Observing and comprehending the world through a scientist’s perspective — its fundamental elements, how they fit and function together — elucidates her passion for chemistry, particularly inorganic and physical chemistry.
Wang mentions the influence of writers like Sam Kean and Knight Science Journalism Program Director Deborah Blum as significant motivators for her pursuit of science. The titles “The Disappearing Spoon” by Kean and “The Poisoner’s Handbook” by Blum “both offer historical insights, adopting a narrative style to discuss the events and individuals involved,” she remarks. “They both invest considerable effort in bridging the gap between sometimes dry science and a compelling narrative that engages people with the significance of the science.”
According to Wang, genres such as fantasy and science fiction are complementary. “Creating an effective world demands that readers grasp characters’ motivations — the ‘why’ — and ensures coherence,” she explains. “It’s crucial to demonstrate how actions and their repercussions drive and influence characters.”
As she investigates the foundational elements of the world within and beyond the classroom, Wang strives to navigate various genres in her writing, similar to her studies in chemistry. “I also enjoy romance and horror,” she shares. “I find it hard to commit to a single genre, so I blend elements I like from each in my narratives.”
In chemistry, Wang prefers an environment where scientists can frequently validate their hypotheses. “It’s vital to connect chemistry to the real world, fostering relevance for students,” she contends. She remarks that advancements in the field have emerged because scientists have been able to move beyond theory and apply concepts practically.
“Fritz Haber’s contributions to ammonia synthesis transformed food supply chain methodologies,” she notes, referring to the German chemist and Nobel laureate. “Converting nitrogen and hydrogen gas into ammonia for fertilizer marked a significant innovation in agricultural practices.” Such progress could only stem from the consistent, controlled, practical application of the theories that scientists explore in laboratory settings.
A future founded on collaboration and teamwork
Observing the dramatic transformations in the world and witnessing humanity struggle to cope with the consequences of phenomena like climate change, political turbulence, and shifting alliances, Wang underscores the significance of dismantling silos in academia and professional environments. Technology can be a double-edged sword, she observes, thus inviting more individuals into formerly isolated spaces benefits everyone.
Critique in both chemistry and writing, Wang posits, serves as a vital instrument for ongoing enhancement. Effective communication, simplifying complex ideas, and collaborating to craft enduring solutions hold substantial value at the intersection of history, art, and science. In writing, Wang notes, critique can illuminate areas for improving authors’ narratives and inspire intriguing concepts.
“We’ve witnessed the beneficial outcomes that can result from proficient science writing, which necessitates rigor and accurate fact-checking,” she states. “MIT’s interdisciplinary approach to our studies, along with constructive criticism from educators and peers, equips us with a remarkable toolkit to carry regardless of where we go.”
Wang also investigates the connections between science and narratives in her spare time. “I’m a participant in MIT’s Anime Club and I enjoy engaging with the MIT Sport Taekwondo Club,” she mentions. The competitive nature of taekwondo allows her to channel her competitive spirit and helps clear her mind. Her involvement in DAAMIT (Digital Art and Animation at MIT) fosters relationships with diverse groups and offers her inspiration for more captivating stories. “It’s intriguing to explore others’ perspectives,” she adds.
Wang contends that the divide between science and the humanities is a misconception and desires her post-graduation endeavors to bridge that gap. “Writing and gaining knowledge in science can facilitate this,” she asserts. “Disciplines such as conservation and history permit further exploration of that intersection.”
In the end, Wang emphasizes the necessity of scrutinizing narratives thoughtfully and questioning the belief in science’s superiority over the humanities. “Both the humanities and science hold equal significance,” she states.