By Daniel Bekele / For The Herald
As a child, I spent my days bouncing from hobby to hobby, earning the nickname “jack-of-all trades.”
Academically, I never stood out, often sitting at the back of the class eagerly awaiting recess. A turning point came before middle school, when I had to decide between sixth-grade math and accelerated math. I initially wanted to choose sixth-grade math, fearing I wasn’t good enough for more challenging coursework. Yet, my mother’s belief in my abilities encouraged me to embrace the challenge. Reluctantly, I chose the accelerated option.
Looking back, opting for the advanced class was one of the best decisions I ever made.
It not only sharpened my math skills but also taught me the value of embracing challenges. This inspired me to pursue more STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) opportunities, like taking an AutoCAD class in seventh grade and attending a STEM camp. These experiences motivated me to pursue a career in STEM, and I am excited to start my computer science degree this fall at the University of Washington.
Recently, I was selected to join the ranks of graduating high school seniors recognized during STEM Signing Day events across the country. Boeing sponsors these events, which celebrate high school seniors who choose to pursue STEM fields after high school. Each of us signed a letter of intent — much as an athlete does — committing to pursue our STEM goals. And we do feel like athletes on signing days! Being honored by Boeing for my dedication to STEM fills me with confidence as I prepare to embark on my journey at the UW.
Looking around at my peers and getting a glimpse of the next generation of STEM leaders makes me hopeful for the future. My fellow STEM Signing Day honorees are pursuing education and careers in fields such as aviation, chemistry, astrophysics, cybersecurity, all types of engineering, and more. I am confident in their potential and their ability to contribute to our communities with curiosity and an enterprising spirit.
Washington offers vast opportunities for me and my peers. Employers are ready to hire in high-demand fields like health care, data analytics, cyber security, construction, teaching, and more. In fact, in this decade, there will be 1.5 million job openings in Washington state, most of which will require education and credentials beyond high school. Internalizing these numbers, I know that my career prospects depend on more education, not less, which is part of why I am excited to continue my education at the UW.
Unfortunately, too few students in our state pursue education or training after high school, and even fewer finish the degrees, industry certificates, and apprenticeships needed in this evolving economy. Only 4 in 10 students in Washington’s high school class of 2021 are expected to complete a postsecondary credential. I aim for more from our generation.
I urge my class and those who succeed us to identify and pursue the education and training opportunities that best support their aspirations. Know that help is available. Many students and families may not realize this, but the Washington College Grant is one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country. All students, even those who don’t think they qualify for aid, should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There’s a lot more aid than you may think. I also implore education leaders and elected officials to remove barriers that get in the way of students finding, enrolling and succeeding in education and training programs that match their goals.
You may be worried about entering a STEM field, where you don’t see a lot of people who look like you. As a first-generation African American, I understand that feeling. Rest assured, you are valued and needed in STEM fields. Throughout my journey, I’ve found supportive communities, mentors, and resources that have helped me navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Don’t let doubts hold you back; seize the opportunities ahead!
Daniel Bekele is a recent graduate of Everett High School.
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