I was really desperate. I don't know if you can remember back that far, but when I went to graduate school they didn't want females in graduate school. They were very open about it. They didn't mince their words. But then I got in and I got my degree.

Shannon Lucid’s quote, "I was really desperate. I don't know if you can remember back that far, but when I went to graduate school they didn't want females in graduate school. They were very open about it. They didn't mince their words. But then I got in and I got my degree," reflects the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated academic environment. Lucid emphasizes the discrimination and gender bias she encountered when pursuing higher education, where being a female was seen as a barrier to entering graduate school. Despite this, she overcame these obstacles and succeeded, earning her degree.

The origin of the quote is Lucid’s personal experience in graduate school, a time when women faced significant challenges in fields traditionally dominated by men. Lucid’s story highlights the overt sexism she encountered, with institutions not just being discriminatory in their practices, but openly expressing their reluctance to admit women. Her words speak to the harsh reality many women faced in the pursuit of education during that time, but also to her determination to succeed despite these barriers.

Lucid’s mention of being "really desperate" underscores the emotional and psychological toll this discrimination took on her. She was not only fighting for her education, but also for her place in a field where she was unwelcome. The fact that she "got in and got my degree" signifies her resilience and tenacity, marking her success as not just academic but also a triumph over the social barriers of the time.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a reflection on the gender inequality that existed in higher education during Lucid’s time and highlights her personal achievement. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, showing that even in environments of discrimination, success is possible for those who are willing to challenge the status quo.