Consistently, research shows that sexism has a distinct impact on women in STEM fields. Gender stereotypes, male-dominated cultures, fewer role models, and math anxiety contribute to the fact that women make up only 28% of the STEM workforce. Furthermore, once women overcome these odds, their salaries are nearly $15,000 less than their male counterparts.
With all of these challenges, it is even more impressive when a woman finds a way to shine in a STEM field. Anne L’Huillier is one of the incredible women who faced this adversary head on.
L’Huillier recently won the 2022 Wolf Prize in Physics for “pioneering contributions to ultrafast laser science and attosecond physics.” The physicist created an entire new field of physics, forming the foundation for studying ultrafast physics (on the scale of the movement of electrons).
L’Huillier advises women who want to follow fields in physics to “follow your intuition, and do what you want to do.” She also notes that women should be especially confident in their abilities, and to not listen to those who say that a woman only got a job because of her gender.
There is still a long way to go for complete equality in STEM fields. However, women like L’Huillier prove that the end goal is a possible and worthy cause.
This blog post is part of the CIMA Law Group blog. If you are located in Arizona and are seeking legal services, CIMA Law Group specializes in Immigration Law, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Government Relations.
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