Obstacles faced by women pursuing STEM.

Women have faced numerous challenges pursuing their studies for a very long time. 

When looking into the ones they encounter while pursuing STEM or sciences, they aren’t given the same opportunities as male peers. They have to deal with the perspectives of people about them. For example, it is commonly believed that women aren’t as capable as men. Although this may be true in some aspects, it isn’t in others. There is no limit to knowledge, regardless of gender.

Many female scientists face criticism not just from outsiders but also from their families. Women in South Asian families are commonly expected to stay home and take over household chores, which means women with potential aren’t given opportunities to showcase their abilities. This is something that shouldn’t be followed, especially in this generation.

If given proper education and opportunities, countless women are more than capable in these fields. Many have been able to overcome challenges like gender discrimination, financial struggles, racism, and limited educational opportunities.

Maryam Mirzakhani, an Iranian mathematician and professor at Stanford University, was born in 1977 and passed away in 2017. She faced societal expectations and restrictions in Iran, gender bias in mathematics, and health struggles with cancer. Similarly, Katherine Johnson, an American mathematician born in 1918 and passed away in 2020, overcame racial segregation and gender discrimination. Lastly, Mae Jemison, born in 1956,  works as a scientist and public speaker. She has faced racism, gender discrimination, societal pressure to pursue traditional careers, and a lack of diversity.

These are just three of many successful scientists setting an example for women today.

STEM fields are not only for a specific gender. You don't have to back away from your passion. We all are just dots, floating in the vast universe that don't know how much time we have left. Whether you want to become an astronaut or a tech geek, you will face criticism and have scarce opportunities, but remember not to give up. As the saying goes 'They are holding their breath to see you fail; make sure they suffocate!'

Written by: Mariam Khalid
Reviewed by: Mariam Shoaib
15/09/24