Comment: Signing on to a bright future in STEM careers

By Shreya Karthik / For The Herald

My world was thrown into two weeks of uncertainty when I was 12 years old and my dad was rushed to the ER with severe encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. He eventually recovered, but throughout those days of turbulence, I truly admired the doctors’ knowledge as they comforted my family and saved my dad’s life. That feeling of relief still resonates with me and drives my aspirations to bring similar comfort to others as a neurologist.

Since then, I have worked with stroke survivors, neurodivergent youths, brain cancer fighters and many other resilient individuals to rebuild their stories through challenging times, whether as a hospital volunteer or student researcher. These experiences taught me that medicine is about discovering the undiscovered, challenging myself, collaborating across disciplines, and using that knowledge not to innovate in isolation but to innovate with the universal goal of service in mind.

These moments solidified my commitment to a future in STEM, one centered on service, curiosity and community. That’s why being recognized as one of 50 students honored at Washington State STEM Signing Day feels especially meaningful. This annual event, hosted by Boeing, celebrates high school seniors committed to futures in science, technology, engineering, and math. Just as athletes sign letters of intent with schools, we each signed a letter declaring our plans to pursue postsecondary education or training in STEM. Being acknowledged for something I’m truly passionate about is incredibly rewarding, and being part of a community of driven, like-minded peers makes it even more special. It gives me an extra boost of confidence as I prepare to begin my journey at Brown University, majoring in neuroscience.

Looking ahead, I am hopeful knowing that I’m part of a generation ready to lead the way in STEM. My fellow STEM Signing Day honorees are preparing to enter incredible fields. Their passion and purpose inspire me. It’s clear our generation is stepping forward with curiosity, creativity and a deep commitment to shaping a better world.

Across Washington state, companies are opening doors in dynamic industries including health care, advanced computing and technology, clean tech, advanced manufacturing, and beyond. As our economy continues to change, one thing remains certain: the best opportunities will go to those who are prepared with the right education, credentials and hands-on experience. That’s one of the things that motivated my decision to attend Brown University this fall. I know that continuing my education is the key to opening doors, and I’m excited (albeit a little nervous) to take that next step.

Still, the truth is that a lot of Washington students don’t continue their education after high school. Only about 40 percent of students in our state are expected to complete a degree, apprenticeship, certificate or other postsecondary credential. I believe we can raise that number. I want to see more of us pursue postsecondary education and step confidently into futures filled with possibilities.

There are so many education and training options to explore; the goal is to find the one that fits best. The good news? Support is out there; students just need to know where to look. Washington offers one of the most generous state financial aid programs: the Washington College Grant. Fill out the FAFSA; you might be surprised by what’s available.

So here is my final message to my fellow Class of 2025 graduates and those who come after us: If you believe STEM might be the right path for you, challenge and believe in yourself, and take that next step. It may seem daunting, but at its core, STEM is about exploring without limits, paving new and unconventional paths and — most importantly — integrating your personality and goals into science, technology, engineering and math to make the world a better place.

Shreya Karthik recently graduated from Henry M. Jackson High School in Everett and was an honoree of the Washington State STEM Signing Day, hosted by Boeing, the Seattle Seahawks and the Partnership for Learning.