STEM vs. Non-STEM: What's the Right Choice For You?
The epitome of a path to success in India is pursuing a career in STEM. It's no secret that we prioritize and give much importance to STEM careers, and often end up overlooking any other possible career paths. This results in a lack of knowledge about the other career options available, and may lead to an unfulfilling professional life.
STEM
What is it?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and careers in any or all of these fields. STEM courses and careers require high levels of practical and theoretical knowledge, research skills, critical analysis skills, communication skills and much more. STEM courses emphasize upon experience-based learning, as the reason behind pursuing these courses is to land a career that helps solve real-world problems.
Careers in STEM
Careers in STEM include conventional careers as well as futuristic careers. Some of the conventional careers are as follows:
- Biologist
- Chemist
- Physicist
- Mathematician
- Engineer
- Medical careers(cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, nurse, etc.)
- Computer Scientist and much more.
Careers in STEM also feature futuristic careers such as:
- Nano-biologist
- Bioinformatics
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning specialist
- Cyber security expert
- Digital Forensics
- Financial Engineers
Though conventional careers have already been there for a long, futuristic careers are emerging careers and have potential for high growth in terms of job prospects and career opportunities.
Why or Who should pursue it?
The general qualities that would be beneficial to pursue a career in STEM are advanced mathematical or technical skills (corresponding to your desired career path), analytical skills, problem-solving skills, personal motivation, perseverance, etc.
STEM courses require a great amount of personal effort and investment, and should not be taken lightly. Extensive higher education is required for certification and an adequate understanding of the subject matter.
Non-STEM
What is it?
Non-STEM refers to any courses and careers that generally fall outside the category of Science, Technology, Education and Mathematics. These fields are Humanities, Business, Law, Fine Arts, Literature and much more. These fields generally do not require such a precise application of theoretical knowledge, but that can vary from career to career. These careers and courses are less focused on technicalities and are more concerned with human thinking and patterns.
Careers in Non-STEM
Here are some examples of careers in Non-STEM fields:
- Human services
- Hotel management
- Chef
- Tour guide
- Travel agent
- Business and Management
- Entrepreneur
- Manager
- Accountant
- Financial analyst
- Legal field
- Lawyer
- Paralegal
- Prosecutor
- Judge
- Arts
- Graphic designer
- Artist
- Interior designer
- Musician
- Communications
- Journalist
- Broadcaster
- Social media manager
Why or Who should pursue it?
While it might be considered "unconventional", there are a range of career opportunities in Non-STEM fields. Jobs in these fields often deal with human behaviour and interactions and require high emotional intelligence, creative inclinations, good communication and analytical skills, etc.
Non-STEM careers offer unique opportunities for personal fulfillment, creativity, and societal impact. Many are drawn to these fields out of a passion for the arts, humanities, or social sciences, areas that allow for self-expression, cultural exploration, and understanding of human behaviour. These careers provide avenues to directly improve people's lives through roles in education, counselling, social work, or public service.
While STEM fields are crucial for technological advancements, non-STEM careers are equally vital for addressing the multifaceted challenges of our time, fostering human connections, and shaping the cultural and social landscapes that define our human experience.
Non-STEM careers offer diverse paths for personal growth, self-actualization, and the pursuit of one's passions. Whether it's a writer crafting captivating narratives, a designer creating visually stunning spaces, or an educator shaping young minds, these careers allow individuals to express their creativity, make a meaningful impact, and find fulfillment in their work.
Understanding which career path suits you best is crucial for long-term job satisfaction, personal fulfillment, and professional success. MentorMe's expert counsellors and a treasure trove of available resources can help you determine which career field is best suited for you. Let us help you on the path to success! Visit our career guidance platform to find out more.
