Meet the Class: 1L Madison Rubin, a STEM Graduate Who Wants to Help Women Innovators

With a background in chemical engineering, Madison Rubin has first-hand experience with the challenges faced by women in STEM fields. She plans to use her combined science and law background to one day assist women innovators. Her interests are wide, from participating in hot air ballooning to recently taking up golf.

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You have an interesting background. Could you describe it a little bit? (e.g. STEM background)

I graduated with a degree in chemical engineering from Iowa State University, where I was able to dive headfirst into research and development through several projects and internships. My work explored areas such as specified drug delivery for cancer treatments and the utilization of biopesticides to address problems throughout agriculture. 

Could you describe one or two interesting life experiences you’ve had? 

I’ve been participating in hot air balloon events since I was just a few weeks old, helping my dad, a pilot, compete. My role is to ensure a safe takeoff and landing, and to follow his movements from the ground. My family has three generations of involvement in these competitions.

What do you hope/plan to do with your legal education (realizing, of course, that may change during the course of your studies)?

While researching the patent application process for an internship, I learned that less than 6% of current commercial patents are owned by women. This fact, coupled with the severe hurdles women in STEM already face, led me to pursue patent law as a means to protect women in innovation.

There are many law school choices. Why did you select Minnesota Law?

During my official visit to Minnesota Law, the speaker at lunch was Judge Rachel Hughey ‘03, a fellow woman in chemical engineering. Hearing about her career and endorsement of intellectual property law in the Twin Cities strengthened the appeal of Minnesota and its legal community to me as a prospective student.

Minnesota Law strives for a diversity of perspectives. What are you hoping to add to the mix?

Although law school may not explicitly utilize the hours spent poring over my fluid mechanics or heat transfer textbooks, the adversity I faced as a woman in STEM and the logical mindset that chemical engineering provided me with have jump-started my passion for finding innovative solutions to complicated legal problems.

Minnesota Law as an institution emphasizes leadership. What does leadership mean to you?

During my time as an undergrad, I mentored middle school girls in the local community, as well as women in STEM who had recently transferred to Iowa State. I believe I learned more from them than they did from me, a key component of being a successful leader.

What are you most looking forward to about being a law student?

I am very excited to explore the Twin Cities and all that they have to offer! I’ve never lived anywhere with so much to do, and I can’t wait to get started on my bucket list.

What are your hobbies/interests?

I love to be outdoors and do anything that gets me moving in fresh air. I’ve recently taken up golf and learned to surf, and I always enjoy a good swim or game of tennis. I spent my summer getting into running and am currently training for my first 10k.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love to travel with family and friends and have already been to nine states in 2022. I am super excited about taking advantage of MSP while in Minnesota! In addition, I love to cheer on the Cyclones and now Gophers and attend as many sporting events as possible.

Favorite inspirational quote, book, or personal hero?

My mom, Macenzie Rubin, has been a huge influence on me. She is a scientist, marathoner 68-times over, mom to three busy girls, and does all of this while dealing with Multiple Sclerosis. Her strength and resilience set the standard in my family, and I’m so thankful for her!

Something interesting about me that others might not know?

I have been on the cover of three magazines and included in several others. Circa 2007, you could find me in your local grocery store checkout line in Better Homes & Gardens Quilts & More!