STEM, and the fields that it encompasses, is possibly one of the most challenging career subjects to navigate. With endless amounts of search engine results, social media suggestions, and more, resources may seem impossible to narrow down and digest.
Complications and challenges can vary with demographics as well. For example, it may be a little easier for a college student pursuing a STEM degree to find clubs and organizations that offer adequate knowledge and resources for their career path. Compared to a child interested in STEM, who may need parental assistance and guidance to make objectively smart decisions for their future. Regardless of age, financial status, able-bodiedness, etc, everyone deserves an opportunity at finding proper tools to further assist in their journey. Here at STEM From, our mission is to give everyone a chance at a lucrative, successful and beneficial career via providing guidance and ample resources. In this article, we will be breaking down the many types of resources available for different age groups and how StemFrom can assist with each one. "There are so many programs out there that aid in individuals getting a taste of STEM. How do we create more awareness?" Our founder asks.
The youngest demographic would consist of elementary and middle school aged children. Resources accumulated for this demographic are likely to be heavily influenced by the parents/guardians, since they play key roles in decision making at these ages, as well as their educators. In an era of endless digital libraries and search results, parents may be heavily conflicted on where to look or what events to take their children to for more exposure to the field. (of course, if the parents’ schedules allow such investment). So where does one start? If the child attends a public school, most official school websites have at least one resource subpage.
For example, the Seattle Schools website has an entire section dedicated to multiple online databases and catalogs for research and information broken down into subjects. Britannica School is an online encyclopedia for student access that covers several subjects, including STEM-related ones. Aside from research databases such as Britannica School, nearly all schools have virtual libraries to access as well. These virtual libraries can allow children to make specific reading choices in different areas of STEM, helping guardians/parents narrow down interests.
What about in-person events? Thankfully, there is an abundance of STEM related events and activities for children to attend. At STEM From, we can give you an idea of which events would best suit your child’s current interests. Where do we look, though? The answer is everywhere. It can be anywhere from social media, or more reliable sources such as the YMCA or local libraries. If transportation or budget are issues, there are a slew of at-home activity guides available either for free or at low cost. Sites such as ScienceBuddies.org are perfect for anyone with those aforementioned constraints. Regardless of your situation, STEM From is here to point you and your child in the right direction! Events can range from all-day conventions to smaller two-to-three hour events. Consultations can help with details and preferences of both parents and students, gearing them toward whatever suits best. (Email us at contact@stemfrom.org for more information)
While resource hunting may seem easier for high schoolers, the battle is just as difficult. In this very important stage of life, good decision making and plenty of research will make or break one’s future career(s). While some teenagers may have agency, an overabundance of clubs/organizations at school, and/or access to personal transportation, it can still be a struggle knowing if the right actions are being taken. Let alone, it is highly dependent on the school, school district, and state to have provided sources.
STEM From aspires to instill our future scientists, mathematicians and more with hope and confidence for their futures. Since many high schoolers have social media, those apps can be a great way to take a peek into their career interests to narrow down choices. TikTok in particular harbors a STEM feature, where you can have an entire feed dedicated to STEM research, guides, explanations, advice and more. Dr. Minardi also recommends that high schoolers interested in STEM look into networking and events, as these will aid in finding meaningful and beneficial connections to people of influence and in positions of influence.
Young adults in STEM are typically pursuing their college degrees, or about to start the college journey for the first time. Either way, this is another crucial transitional period in one’s life, and steps should be taken to ensure and promote success. Many colleges provide a plethora of resources to their current and soon-to-be students. But many people may struggle even finding the right college for them in the first place. Our founder, Dr. Minardi, recommends utilizing both the ever-evolving world of technology and in person resources to aid in this decision, specifically her course in grinding a student’s optimal university available here. Additionally, searching for ways to engage in the STEM community inside and outside of the respective college at events can be really rewarding and beneficial both for learning as well as networking.
Still struggling? Our founder Dr. Minardi’s consultations for young adults can focus on college decision making, affordability, and career focus. Many current and future college students don’t have solid plans, resulting in flimsy confidence in randomly chosen fields.“I did a survey for my network, and 80% of respondents said that they found their career paths randomly. We need to change this,” she says. She aims to provide clarity and certainty to her clients, setting them up for success during their college run. With her help, finding events, networking and colleagues to aid in one’s STEM journey is much less stress-inducing and implements seeds for success.
Two often unacknowledged groups are older adults and elders. But one’s age shouldn’t stop them from pursuing lifelong learning! There are still numerous options available, even if some may feel like it's far too late. College is always a cogent option to fall back on, but if that’s intimidating to jump into, Dr. Minardi recommends taking a peek at the STEM From youtube channel for a glimpse into the STEM career field without making immediate education decisions. There, she posts her StemFrom podcast, focused on highlighting various individuals in the STEM industry and their experiences. The podcast guests alongside Dr. Minardi give great insight and guidance on the endless possibilities of STEM careers.
Don’t have time to watch a podcast? Or certain that you want to go back to college, but unsure how to go about it? Request a consultation from Dr. Minardi directly for step-by-step assistance on your future! Age is irrelevant as mentioned before and it is never too late! Dr. Minardi is also capable of approaching the challenges that come with entering/pursuing a career in this age group. For example, many older folk are hesitant to take advantage of technology due to lack of familiarity. Dr. Minardi can do the legwork for these individuals, doing the bulk of research herself and relaying resources to clientele. (Email us at contact@stemfrom.org for more information)
In the comments below, feel free to spark discussion or ask questions about this article! We’ll be sure to address these comments in subsequent articles. Here at STEM From, we strive to educate and promote success for all ages!
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