STEM


Careers in Healthcare and Science? S


olid grounding in science is widely considered to be crucial for the next


generation of American leaders. From biochemists and pharmacists to physi- cian assistants and physical therapists, the future of the United States job mar- et lie in te field of ealtare and science. Yet, for the second consecutive year, an online survey conducted by Harris Interactive for University of the Scienc- es (http://www.usciences.edu) shows that half (49 percent) of all high school- aged students are not interested in pur- suing these careers. The 49 percent of 9th-12th grade


tudent wo ay tey are definitely or probably not considering a career in science or healthcare represents an 8.9 percent increase over last year’s survey. While it’s too soon to know if this is a trend or not, it does concern UScienc- es’ leadership and faculty, especially since the lack of interest among young- er teens (aged 13-15) grew and stands near 60 percent.


“It is essential that the sciences re- main top of mind for America’s teen- agers,” said Russell J. DiGate, PhD, provost at University of the Sciences. “As a university dedicated solely to sci- ence and healthcare studies, we know


te value of puruing tee field and the imminent need for scientists of all genres. Our graduates leave not only with the skills and experience neces- sary to excel in today’s marketplace, but te deterity to reate and ouri in the careers of tomorrow.” Students not considering a career in healthcare and science cite numer- ous reasons for their lack of interest in


tee field „24 percent feel they don’t know


enoug about areer in tee field „18 percent feel they’re not good


enough at science „12 percent are not prepared for a ca- reer in healthcare/science


Additional Study Highlights Include:


Females and Racial Minorities


An overwhelming majority of stu- dents interested in careers in the sci- ences are among females and racial minorities. Sixty percent of females in grade  indiate tey are definite- ly” or “probably considering” careers in healthcare or the sciences, while only 39 percent of males the same age feel similarly. African Americans (47


percent), Hispanics (37 percent), and other minorities (38 percent) are more likely than White students (24%) to say tey are definitely onidering tee future careers.


Why a Career in Healthcare and Sciences?


Understanding why some high school-aged students want to pursue healthcare and science careers may help to encourage younger teens to more actively consider a future in these industries. Although considered to be among the most lucrative, nearly six in ten students (56 percent) cite “earning good money” as their reason for con- idering a areer in ti field verall “interest in the category” (70%) and the “want to help people” (61%) were ranked most important motivators. Furthermore, while scientists (28


percent), doctors (28 percent) and nurses (21 percent) are among the most sought out careers, interest in other healthcare careers such as physical or occupational therapists and physician assistants is also high (21 percent).


Schools are Not a Major Influence


Of high school students considering pursuing a career in healthcare and the iene only  perent tate inuene from a teacher, and a mere 4 percent say guidance from a school counselor are reasons for their interest. Students’ parents are the most likely group to encourage students in pursuing these careers (27 percent). “Rewarding futures are synony- mous with science and healthcare,” said Dr. DiGate. “It is our responsibil- ity to encourage the youth of America to engage in ientifi ativity fro a young age and cultivate aspirations for ientifi enrient e future ien- tist, whether in chemistry or pharmacy, biology or occupational therapy, will


46 HISPANIC NETWORK MAGAZINE Celebrating 19 Years of Diversity www.hnmagazine.com


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