Preparing for the future is a concept that applies to every student. Whether going into a STEM-related major in college, a STEM-related job after graduation or even going into a career field that you think has nithing to do with STEM you will be better prepared because of the hard and soft skills that are apart of a STEM literate curricula.
Of course heading into a STEM college major or workforce experience requires a background in STEM disciplines. Advanced Science, Technology, Engineering and Math courses will provide you the classroom knowledge that you will need to be successful. Develop a good relationship with your guidance counselor and make sure you discuss your career aspirations with them, especially when it comes to scheduling your classes. They can help you find the classes that will best prepare you for your intended career. You should also look into extra-curricular activities that will enhance your real-world knowledge. Science fairs, the Real World Design Challenge and other regionally-hosted programs area great opportunities for you to apply what you have learned.
Even if you do not think you are going into a career field that requires STEM knowledge consider that A) you may change your career direction and you can not go back and retake high school classes; B) in this age of technology, almost every career involves at least one of the STEM areas.
Furthermore, the idea of STEM literacy is a concept that involves teaching students how to think, adapt to unexpected changes in the workplace, adapt to new technology, communicate complex ideas, work well with others to solve problems and find creative solutions to unforseen situations. The need for these skills exists in almost every day-to-day experience. Learning to lead, innovate and think outside-the-box is something that will stick with you, no matter what career path you choose to take.
