March 20, 2025
By Janset Çinaz
Copy Editor
This article is part of a six-part in-depth reporting project about women’s issues.
Many people have heard of STEM, the acronym for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This area of study drives innovation, solves global challenges and makes societal advancement possible.
However, many do not realize that STEM is a male-dominated field. A 2023 study conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology reveals that the gender gap in STEM remains significant, with women making up only 28% of the workforce.
Senior Rachel Pimentel is among the minority of women planning to pursue a career in STEM. She intends to study chemistry in college and then get a job working in a lab.
“I haven’t learned about a lot of female scientists, engineers or mathematicians in school,” Pimentel said. “Most of the time, female scientists [have been] overlooked by male scientists simply because [men] didn’t believe a woman could be as smart.”
Pimentel said for women to thrive in STEM fields, two major changes are necessary.
“Schools [should] teach students more about females in STEM and advocate for women to get paid the same amount as men,” Pimentel said.
She said because there are lower numbers of women in STEM, it is challenging for women to prove themselves in the workplace.
“It is harder for women to advance to leadership positions in STEM because it’s such a male-dominated field,” Pimentel said.
“Having a mentorship program where a middle or high school girl is paired with a mentor working in STEM can be incredibly beneficial. It helps her see that a career in STEM is achievable, making her goals feel more attainable.”
Senior Nancy Attia, who plans to major in nursing and pursue a career in pediatrics or work in the neonatal intensive care unit, said women’s involvement in STEM will have long-term impacts.
“With more women taking on roles in STEM, I think there will be a boost in inclusivity, and the younger generation of girls will feel motivated to study harder,” Attia said.
She said female LHS students looking for support in their STEM-related career ambitions should consider joining the Wonder Girls Club, which she has been a member of since her freshman year.
Wonder Girls USA is a non-profit organization that offers after-school programs for girls in middle and high school to help them develop business skills, confidence and leadership ability.
“Wonder Girls is a great club to get involved in to educate yourself more about future career goals,” Attia said.
Spanish teacher Mrs. Silvelo, who advises the Wonder Girls Club, said she strives to connect her students with professionals who can discuss their experiences and offer support.
“Having a mentorship program where a middle or high school girl is paired with a mentor working in STEM can be incredibly beneficial. It helps her see that a career in STEM is achievable, making her goals feel more attainable,” Silvelo said.
Silvelo said in July 2024, some club members got the chance to interact with marine biologist Amie Lenkowiec.
“Amie spoke to the girls about her career and led a mentorship session in our summer program, where she taught them about marine biology, earth sciences and even how to create a home ecosystem with plants for cooking,” Silvelo said.
She said females should not feel dissuaded from pursuing a career in STEM.
“If a woman is skilled and passionate about STEM, she should have the opportunity to pursue it,” said Silvelo.
