I was incredibly pleased to open the paper before my spectroscopy lab and see that Jessica Scott, rather than complaining about gender inequality, showed us a way to actively eliminate the problem ("Gender equality exists in technical majors," Jan. 29 column).

Ladies, if we want to be respected as intellectual equals to men, we must continue in Jessica's footsteps and prove ourselves competent in traditionally male-dominated fields. Some of the more feminist types might feel that the concept of having to "prove themselves" is unfair, and, well, they're probably right. But seriously, what's accomplishing more -- whining about it in women's studies class or smacking down the stereotypes by stepping into a "traditionally male" class and excelling?

We're all aware that gender inequality exists. It's time to stop merely discussing the problem. Get up, get out, get in the lab, get on the playing field --be living proof that gender inequality is simply ridiculous.