In a society where white men have the upper hand, being a female or any minority proves to be an unseen challenge. My gender puts me at a disadvantage when it comes to determining my role and success. As a woman living in a white man’s world, I knew I would have to prove myself; I just did not know how much. This great divide of equality, in all areas of society, should not have a place in this world’s history. Call me naïve for believing all contributions should be valued with the same respect, and it should not matter who or what earns the credit. So what if the person does not fit a typical, or better yet, a popular image? All anyone should care about is the fact that a mark from someone will forever be embedded in history. It is beyond empowering to read about the women of this country’s history who were not held back by the life they were expected to live. These women made room for themselves in the fields they had a passion for following. Women like Susan B. Anthony, Amelia Earhart, Clara Barton, Katherine Johnson, and so many more made a place in an unlikely field. These women broke barriers and trail blazed in these fields in defining the roles they played and contributions they had to offer. In a country of equality, it sure does not feel like it. We still have some ground to cover in this battle for equal opportunity in normalizing women in science- and technology-based careers. I am reminded of a commercial that has a woman singing to the tune of a Wizard of Oz song interjecting to society that she “also has a brain.” For this commercial to be relevant still today and offering society such a strong message is beyond me. I absolutely see its need, but in the year 2017, it blows my mind that we still must justify and prove our interests and professional goals. I say to all the people stereotyping my decisions this: I can achieve whatever I set my mind to achieving. My gender is not a disability or an inferior attribute of my capabilities and character. My advice to any person seeking a place in a world meant for someone else is to wholeheartedly believe and do. Stay Curious, Kayla ©Inquisitive Perspectives 2017
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