International Day of Women & Girls in Science

February 11 is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day recognizes the critical role women and girls play in science and technology and promotes full and equal access to participation in science for women and girls.

The day was declared by The United National General Assembly in December of 2015 and is implemented by UNESCO and UN Women.

Numerous studies have been conducted highlighting the underrepresentation of women in science and STEM fields. 

Read more: National Academy of Sciences: why is it important to encourage more women to pursue science and engineering careers?

We sat down with GRCHS science teacher Stephanie Boven to talk about the importance of women in science, what influenced her decision to pursue a career in science, and how she encourages her students.

Did you have a role model that influenced your decision to work in science?

Two of my aunts finished school and worked in male-dominant science fields in the late '70s. Growing up, I just knew that stereotype of male scientists didn't have to be true. 

I loved all my science teachers (I get to work with a couple of them now!), but one professor in college really stands out. She was the only female science professor I had. She was a chemist but found herself drawn to teaching. She was extremely passionate about her students and has made her career all about teaching future teachers to love both science and their students.

Why did you choose to become a scientist? Why did you decide to become a science teacher?

I love learning about the world, particularly all the patterns God has put into place. That's why I love chemistry and earth science so much. I also love high schoolers! So, becoming a science teacher seemed like a great fit. And I love it.

Why is it important for girls to get involved in science or STEM at an early age?

For so many reasons! It can cultivate curiosity, imagination, critical thinking; it can foster confidence and ultimately change! Future scientists will be changing the future!

How does GRCS encourage, equip, prepare students to get involved with science/STEM?

We have a really robust list of science course offerings for a school our size: three AP classes, a couple of other electives, and some engineering and robotics classes. For students curious about STEM, counselors can help them set up a map to take 2 or 3 different classes every year! We also have an excellent robotics program, and various Winterim classes offered each year in enrichment topics like sustainability, health career exploration, and forensic science. We've also had quite a few students reach out to community members for internships in engineering, architecture, and health sciences.

In your opinion, which changes, if any, are needed in the scientific system to be more attractive to women in science and possible future scientists?

We need more female role models. Our female students need to see females in positions of influence — as their nurses and doctors, civil engineers working in their neighborhood, lab technicians at CVS, and physics professors. Even in the media, our female students need to see females working as forensic scientists and architects.

We also spoke with two GRCHS senior students, Lauren Warner and Ava Tatko, about their passion for science and STEM and how they hope to pursue careers in the field. Watch the video below.

 

Grand Rapids Christian High School Learn More

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Stephanie Boven is in her 11th year teaching at GRCHS, where she currently teaches AP Chemistry and Earth and Space Science. She is a graduate of Calvin Unversity with a degree in secondary education and science and recently completed her master's degree in science education. When not in the classroom, you can find Stephanie playing outside with her husband, dog, and sweet baby Teddy.