Celebrating Women in STEM and the Power of TOEFL: A Recap of an Inspiring Live Session

This empowering live session — "Inspiring Inclusion: How Women Impact the World Through English & Education" — was hosted by Study in the USA and TOEFL and led by Marifer Sagastume, a Panamanian biomedical engineer and STEM educator. Through her vibrant journey and roles at Florida Tech's Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design (CAMID), Marifer embodies the transformative potential of education and mentoring in STEM.

The essence of the session

The session unfolded with engaging discussions, insightful experiences, and practical advice, featuring two student panelists: Albina Haque from Bangladesh, pursuing her degree in mathematics and computer science at St. Joseph's University, New York; and Avilasha Giri from Nepal, studying computer engineering in California. This diverse panel underscored the session's commitment to fostering inclusivity and connection within the global STEM community.

Why this matters

STEM fields stand as the frontier of innovation and problem-solving. However, the underrepresentation of women in these areas poses challenges not just to equity but to the richness of ideas and perspectives necessary for holistic advancement. This session not only celebrated women's contributions to STEM but also spotlighted the critical role of English proficiency, as measured by the TOEFL iBT® test, in creating global educational opportunities.

The role of TOEFL

The TOEFL iBT® test, a widely recognized measure of English proficiency, emerges as a key facilitator for international students aiming to study in the U.S. It's not merely about language skills but about bridging cultures, fostering understanding, and enabling students to thrive in diverse academic environments. The session highlighted TOEFL's role in ensuring that students are fully prepared to embark on their educational journeys, with 100% of U.S. universities accepting the test.

Insights and inspiration

Panel discussions delved into the realities of being a woman in STEM, the journey to studying in the U.S., and the impact of TOEFL on this journey. Both Albina and Avilasha shared their personal experiences, challenges, and the triumphs of adapting to a new educational and cultural setting. 

Engaging the audience

A unique aspect of the session was its interactive nature, encouraging audience participation through questions and sharing aspirations. This engagement not only enriched the discussion but also built a community of like-minded individuals passionate about STEM and education.

Key takeaways

• Empowerment through education: The session reinforced the belief in education as a powerful tool for empowerment, especially for women in STEM.
• English proficiency as a stepping stone: Mastery of English, as evidenced by the TOEFL iBT® test, is crucial for accessing educational opportunities in the U.S.
• Inclusion and diversity: The stories shared during the session emphasized the importance of inclusivity and diversity in enriching STEM fields and educational experiences.

In case you missed it…

If you couldn't join the live session, you can catch up by watching the entire session, which offers a comprehensive look into the TOEFL test and studying abroad, addressing various essential aspects for international students.

Looking forward

As the session concluded, the panelists and Marifer offered final insights and encouragement, highlighting the session's role in motivating and guiding future international students. The shared experiences, coupled with practical advice on navigating the TOEFL iBT® test, painted a comprehensive picture of the opportunities and challenges on the path to studying in the U.S.

This session not only celebrated the achievements of women in STEM but also laid down a marker for the critical role of English proficiency in the international educational landscape. Aspiring students left with not just inspiration but tangible advice on preparing for their journeys, making "Inspiring Inclusion: How Women Impact the World Through English & Education" a milestone event in the pursuit of a more inclusive and diverse global STEM community.

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