If your daughter is a budding veterinarian, then you are in luck! There are many ways that you can help her develop the skills she needs to pursue this career. Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are often thought of as male-dominated fields. But the truth is that there are plenty of women in STEM and their stories can inspire girls to start thinking about what they want to do when they grow up. That’s why we love Expanding Girls’ Horizons in Science and Engineering Month. To help aspiring girls find their pathway to veterinary science, we recommend:
1. Encourage Your Daughter to Explore Science
How many of you have a daughter who is interested in science? As parents, it can be difficult to know if she is really into science or just talking about it because they are supposed to. Encourage your daughter to explore the world of science through hands-on activities, discussions, and giving in to curiosity.
There are so many amazing things waiting for her at every turn!
2. Find a Mentor for Her in the Field of Science She is Interested In
There are so many amazing women who’ve had significant impact on STEM, and who’ve indeed, changed the world. From Marie Curie who was a pioneer in radiation and cancer research, to Rachel Carson who led from the very beginnings of conservation and environmental movements, and Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel to space, proving that science careers can literally take you out of this world!
If you don’t have any mentors in your circle, consider visiting Million Women Mentors, a network which helps encourage and help girls and women succeed in STEM.
3. Share Articles and Books About Women Scientists with Her So That She Can See How Many Different Fields There Are Out There and What They Do
Of course, we’re partial to veterinary science, so we love books and articles about pet care and advancements in veterinary medicine. But there are many other fields of science, too! Here are a couple of books that help give a peek into some of the accomplishments of women in science:
- Work It, Girl: Mae Jemison: Blast off into Space Like
- How to Build a Hug: Temple Grandin and Her Amazing Squeeze Machine
- Black Women in Science: A Black History Book for Kids
- Marine Biology: Cool Women Who Dive
- Women in Science: Jane Goodall
4. Take Her to Museums, Zoos, or Aquariums Where She Can Learn More About Animals and Other Scientific Topics
Make a family outing to our local Science Museum and visit all the exhibits. Visit the Minnesota Zoo to view animals in their natural habitats. You’ll have a blast and be able to take an opportunity for you to bond while also expanding her knowledge base. We love going on these kinds of outings with family because it’s always so much fun to explore together!
5. Talk to Her About Careers in Science And Engineering
Science is so much fun. Find out more about it by talking to your daughter and highlighting all the different possible careers in science she can have when it comes time for college or career choices. No matter what, you’ll be sure that there’s a field of study she’ll love, and maybe even discover some unexpected curricular connections to her current interests.
Don’t Forget to Visit One of Your Favorite Female Scientists: Dr. Plantz!
At Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic, each one of our veterinary staff members are passionate about science and not only the healing it can provide to our pets when they are hurting, but also in the wellness and prevention that can help keep them part of our families longer. We hope that more young women enter this amazing career path and find the same joy in it that we do!
Image credit: Sam Lion | Pexels