THE GENDER GAP IN S.T.E.M.

The scarcity of women in S.T.E.M. originates in their youth due to insufficient amount of support in their educational and home environments. The stereotyping that men are more suited for challenging careers discourages young girls from pursuing S.T.E.M. This research will discuss issues leading to this ongoing problem. From counselors to family members, women who advance in their education see a decrease in promotion and motivation for S.T.E.M. programs compared to their male counterparts causing gender segregation. Whether intentional or not, a lack of familiarity in a room influences one's optimism when carefully choosing their next steps into a potential occupation. Furthermore, the lack of excellent role models and mentors exacerbates the alienation of the next generation of women who have aptitudes for STEM fields. (Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Junalyn Navarra-Madsen)