Breaking Barriers in STEM through Bioscience

Why do I study bioscience? I am a girl who comes from a rural area, and I found that the people in my hometown had limited knowledge about science. I still remember during the COVID-19 pandemic, people in my hometown with lesser knowledge about science were having difficulty understanding the pandemic and its implications. This also included my parents. Without a clear understanding, confusion and misinformation was unavoidable and this could be very dangerous during a pandemic. Through this experience, I realized that knowledge of bioscience is very important for the community and this realization made me decided to study this particular field in Form six. Effective science communication is crucial to help people understand the pandemic and take appropriate actions. Rural exclusion from science and academia is a real issue that can lead to a cultural divide between rural areas and the scientifically- aware community.

Other than that, it is a fact that science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields are rapidly growing and are essential for the future of our society especially for girls. Therefore, it is important to have a strong foundation in STEM education so I can stay competitive in the job market. Studying bioscience can open up a wide range of career opportunities in public, private and non-profit sectors. I am able to pursue careers in fields such as research biology, healthcare, pharmacology and environmental science. The career options are diverse and can be both humanitarian and lucrative.

Girls, the world is reaching out for you to enter the popular and fast-growing STEM industry. In this field, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving abilities are highly prized. When we are given the chance to engage with and thrive in these subjects, the future of STEM will be brighter and more inventive.

As a grateful recipient of SICB’s sponsorship, I am compelled to express my deepest gratitude for the invaluable support that has paved the way for my educational odyssey. The impact of this sponsorship extends far beyond the financial realm; it is a vote of confidence, a validation of potential and a catalyst for future achievements. With the unwavering support of SICB, I have been able to embark on a transformative educational journey, one that has broadened my horizons, deepened my knowledge and honed my skills.

In closing, my heart overflows with gratitude towards the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology. SICB’s sponsorship has not only made my educational dreams a reality but has also illuminated a path filled with endless possibilities. With the knowledge, skills and passion cultivated through SICB’s support, I am emboldened to face the future with confidence, ready to tackle challenges and embrace opportunities.