When it comes to the academic performance, with STEM students -- it comes down to a tie, both females and males study and perform equally. But sadly, this fact does not carry over into the scientific professional world where there is a serious gender gap in the science and technology work forces.

We should be encouraging young girls, and women our age to pursue their dreams, and get those careers -- because we can.

Women make up half of the total U.S. college-educated workforce, but only 29% of the science and engineering workforce.

For example:

• 35.2% of chemists are women;
• 11.1% of physicists and astronomers are women;
• 33.8% of environmental engineers are women;
• 22.7% of chemical engineers are women;
• 17.5% of civil, architectural, and sanitary engineers are women;
• 17.1% of industrial engineers are women;
• 10.7% of electrical or computer hardware engineers are women; and
• 7.9% of mechanical engineers are women.

Many women are deterred from entering and competing in the STEM workforce due to outdated stereotypes that still exist today. As females, we are put in the spotlight -- and appearance is starting to matter more.

Solutions don’t need to be costly; they can start by creating school and job environments that allow girls and women to be comfortable and confident within the STEM fields. Tested interventions in developed countries that have made role models available to girls, introduced inclusive language in the classroom, brought in non-stereotypical role models, and given information about STEM workplaces show a lot of promise. In developing countries, we need to keep learning more, but it is clear that information and teachers, for example, are key. Seemingly small changes in behavior and aspirations can go a long way toward building a more equal future for today’s girls and boys.

As a woman pursuing a career in the STEM field, I get it. If it's not gender, it's going to be about the way you look, how you dress. or where you're from. But with all these challenges, instead of backing out, use these obstacles as your motivation. I've had more than enough obstacles in my academic career. However, I regret nothing and I'd go through everything again if it means getting to where I need to be, saving lives.