I was not brought up as a girl child, I was simply a child and expected to excel in all aspects of my student life - academics, drama, debate, sports, etc., as were my brothers. Imagine my surprise when I grew from girl child to woman, to find that some actors in society adjudged my gender a disability! I have not allowed this to impact my aspirations and career decisions. I have equally passed judgment, and in my opinion, they have a problem which has absolutely nothing to do with me! This saying resonates with me as a universal truth, "no one can put you down without your permission." Be professional, focus on your objectives, build your network, and maintain a detachment level to ensure sound judgment in all you do.