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What is it like being a woman working in STEM? Are there any feelings of self doubt or lack of confidence? If so, how to overcome it?
I've always been so confused and honestly frustrated that women don't get as much recognition in STEM-related careers, and although opportunities are arising there are still underlying sexism and misogyny in the workplace. That sometimes discourage me from pursuing a career in STEM because I thought I wouldn't be as smart as the boys working there.
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5 answers
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Lesly’s Answer
Hello! To be honest, I haven't experienced any difficulties as a woman in STEM, nor have I encountered any obstacles in having a satisfying career. Believe me, you are highly appreciated and extremely vital to any organization or project, more than you might think. As soon as you recognize your own worth, there will be no barriers in your path. Keep an optimistic attitude and maintain self-confidence!
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Hanbi’s Answer
Hi Jenny, good to hear from you. In my 7 yrs in STEM field as a woman, I have indeed observed gender bias. Just want to preface it with - often times we say mean things to ourselves and it's not true we are not as smart as the "boys". There are boys who want to pursue STEM, there are boys who don't. Similarly, there are girls who want to pursue STEM, and girls who don't. What is important is what you want to do, at the end of the day, if you want to pursue it, that is your truth and don't let self doubt steal your light from you!
Some of it, like impacts to your career progression and how much you can commit to your career vs. other facets of life, can't be helped due to the fact that we have the unique gift of bringing children into this world (if one is interested in becoming a parent). Some of it, like managers somehow believing women cannot do certain tasks, is pure bias and bigotry.
Like Chantel said, every work place has bias of all sorts - heights, race, gender, etc. and it ultimately comes down to why you want to pursue STEM -- is it because you enjoy the field? is it because STEM fields offer flexible career paths? is it because you have met role models in STEM and want to be just like them, and inspire more girls in STEM? Some workplaces are better than others, so if you have the options, definitely choose a company whose values align with yours. This includes how they treat employees, their leadership values, etc. ask existing employees if you can.
I think it's a choice for you to make ultimately - do you want to pursue STEM after looking at the pros and cons, and down the road as you mature professionally and in your life, how you make your work and life choices and if you are at peace with the choices you've made.
Best of Luck, I for one am very happy I chose STEM in the end! Something I've never regretted, ever.
Some of it, like impacts to your career progression and how much you can commit to your career vs. other facets of life, can't be helped due to the fact that we have the unique gift of bringing children into this world (if one is interested in becoming a parent). Some of it, like managers somehow believing women cannot do certain tasks, is pure bias and bigotry.
Like Chantel said, every work place has bias of all sorts - heights, race, gender, etc. and it ultimately comes down to why you want to pursue STEM -- is it because you enjoy the field? is it because STEM fields offer flexible career paths? is it because you have met role models in STEM and want to be just like them, and inspire more girls in STEM? Some workplaces are better than others, so if you have the options, definitely choose a company whose values align with yours. This includes how they treat employees, their leadership values, etc. ask existing employees if you can.
I think it's a choice for you to make ultimately - do you want to pursue STEM after looking at the pros and cons, and down the road as you mature professionally and in your life, how you make your work and life choices and if you are at peace with the choices you've made.
Best of Luck, I for one am very happy I chose STEM in the end! Something I've never regretted, ever.
It makes me so happy that you love your job :") I really do believe that in your 7 years, you have inspired many young girls like you did to me today. Thank you so much for your thoughtful response Hanbi!
Jenny
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I believe there is no difference on the capability on STEM on the genders. There are many women performing well in STEM. You may see a lot of women leaders in the top technology companies nowadays.
I think this is more on the aspect of self confidence. Regardless studying or workig in the STEM aspect, you should be confident to yourself and perform. Gender should not be the factor that hinders your development.
On the other hand, if you really identify there is any bias or inequality due to the gender, you have also had to speak up. We should have more diversity and inclusoin nowadays.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
I think this is more on the aspect of self confidence. Regardless studying or workig in the STEM aspect, you should be confident to yourself and perform. Gender should not be the factor that hinders your development.
On the other hand, if you really identify there is any bias or inequality due to the gender, you have also had to speak up. We should have more diversity and inclusoin nowadays.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
I appreciate this so much Rebecca ! Thank you for your advice :)
Jenny
Updated
Chantel’s Answer
I have worked in STEM for just over a year and I have to admit that it has been one of the most life changing decisions I’ve made. Unfortunately, there will be some level of bias in every workplace, there’s work to be done in all spaces however do not allow it to sun your light or steal opportunities from you. Challenge the companies you are interested in and begin. asking question around their culture.
Thank you for the advice Chantel ! I'll be sure to not let anything sun my light :)
Jenny
Updated
Madison’s Answer
Such a wonderful yet complex question. Finding female mentors in your field and also learning to become a mentor yourself is always the most helpful. You know you’re qualified, be confident and clear in that and if you experience bias, address it. Don’t be afraid to address implicit or explicit bias you’re experiencing. Sometimes people aren’t meaning to be biased, the system in general can also be biased, but you make your own path, stand up for yourself and others and show how great you are by continuing to put in the work. We all wish this was not even an issue of course but knowing in your own heart your qualifications and skills will build your confidence and allow you to standup for yourself and others and make change!