Learn how teachers empower students to engage their passion for STEM.

The fact that females are underrepresented worldwide in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields is well documented. The International Journal of STEM Education, a peer-reviewed publication dedicated to the study of STEM education, reports that the challenge for educators is finding ways to encourage more girls to choose STEM majors and careers.

Budding scientists at The Ursuline School in New Rochelle are finding a passion for STEM in the all-girls environment thanks to step-by-step guidance from highly accomplished and nurturing faculty.

On March 15, 2025, orderly rows of tri-fold presentation boards filled the space at Somers High School for the Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF), a regional science fair for high school students in Westchester and Putnam Counties. Among the crowd of eager, well-prepared high school students stood young scientists from The Ursuline School, ready to present months of scientific research on topics of their own choosing. These juniors and seniors discovered their passion for STEM—nurtured in an all-girls environment and guided by dedicated faculty who empower them to excel. 

Ursuline students Anjali ‘25, Emily ‘26, and Maura ‘27 reveal how Ursuline’s three-year Science Research honors program provides hands-on, experiential learning sparking their passions and shaping their futures. Learn more about this engaging, long-standing, distinctive program from three students in their own words.

What drew you to pursue the Science Research track at Ursuline?

Anjali: I have always wanted to perform research, and I am passionate about pursuing the pre-med track with a major in biology. Therefore, I wanted lab experience before college.

Emily: I pursued science research because of my love and interest in astronomy, being able to learn more about my interests, and the chance to win a competition like WESEF.

Maura: I have always had a strong passion for science, especially biology. When I heard about the Science Research program, I thought it was amazing how students had the opportunity to learn like true scientists by analyzing and collecting data. Additionally, my older sister won first place in Environmental Science at WESEF. It seemed like such a rewarding and character-building experience that I knew I would love to participate.

Why does an all-girls learning environment matter? 

Anjali: The all-girls learning environment provides a strong sense of community, especially among the small class of science research students. STEM is all about collaboration, so a close and comfortable community is very important.

Emily: It really feels like a welcoming space where no one is ever there to bring you down, only lift you up. Everyone feels like a happy family, and women can support women in this amazing field that can be full of men.

Maura: At Ursuline, the close-knit, all-girls community helps to foster confidence. Especially in Science Research class, everyone is very supportive of each other and tries to provide each other with resources, such as possible mentors. This environment allows us to achieve our full potential because we are comfortable with ourselves and each other. Support from classmates and friends is especially important for STEM subjects, as they can be intimidating at times.

How has the Science Research program impacted your life as a student?

Anjali: The Science Research program has given me invaluable experience from working in a lab and competing in competitions. I've learned so much about science, data analysis, public speaking, and collaboration.

Emily: It’s helped me gain some very important skills like presenting, researching, and writing. It’s also helping me find a great community full of supportive people and opportunities. I've been having a great time!

Maura: As a non-traditional class, Science Research has taught me time management skills and the importance of working hard outside of class hours, such as searching for and contacting possible mentors. I'm provided with independence and the ability to generate my project on subjects that I am passionate about. Furthermore, it has taught me to convey my academic tasks in a way that is easily understandable to any audience.

How has the program helped to shape your goals for the future?

Anjali: The program has helped me learn what research I want to continue in college and has given me insight into what I have in store in the future as I major in biology and go on to medical school.

Emily: After this program, I’ve found myself wanting to do something STEM-related, whether it be a job or something similar. It’s always been a thought, but this helped me lock in this desire, and I find what I truly like!

Maura: Before joining the Science Research Program, I was interested in pursuing a career in business. However, I now realize how impactful science can be, and I've started to take an interest in medical and research careers.

How have Ursuline teachers supported your interest in STEM?

Anjali: Ursuline teachers have helped me find my science research mentor, with whom I performed research.

Trezza: They have given me incredible support, opportunities, and a lot of lessons that I’ll carry with me throughout my life. They’ve helped fuel this passion in me, found me mentors, and taught me well. They’ve shown me that a lot of this hard work can be really fun!

Maura: Ursuline teachers have helped to encourage my love for STEM by always being extremely supportive and answering any question I may have. Additionally, they gave me excellent suggestions on how to find a mentor and were more than willing to provide me with any connections to possible mentors they may have. 

Overall, what should prospective students know about STEM at The Ursuline School?

Anjali: At The Ursuline School, the STEM programs are very advantageous if you would like to pursue a STEM major or career after your time here. You can get invaluable experience that will put you ahead in the future.

Emily: It’s the most friendly and supportive environment ever. I have gotten closer to friends and even made new friends who have the same interests as me. It helped fuel my love for science by allowing me to explore the field almost independently, but with the best support ever. It’s a lot of hard work, but I’d never trade it.

Maura: I truly hope that prospective students know how STEM teachers at Ursuline provide me with the resources and support to pursue my personal passions and interests. Additionally, even in challenging STEM courses, teachers are always very willing to work with students until they thoroughly understand a complex topic.

The Science Research program is a resume-building game-changer that prepares students for a future in STEM where girls can thrive. These budding scientists and their like-minded peers are charting a course to a fulfilling future in STEM. At Ursuline, the next generation of science researchers is bright with promise and hard at work in the science labs on the third floor.