girls!... what's so great about a career in science anyway?
But first, what makes girls so good at science? Boys have bigger brains, but do they have better brains?
You know the answer!
the female of the species
Boys have bigger brains, so should be better at science right? Rubbish, their brains may be bigger, but they don’t have any more of the grey matter, the stuff that does all the thinking. A girl’s brain has the same processing power it just comes in a smaller package than a boy’s, which means it’s more efficient.
Differences between girls’ and boys’ brains begin while still in the womb. Three months after conception the foetus produces sex hormones that cause it to develop into a girl or a boy. Androgens are responsible for ‘maleness’ in body and brain. But how does gender affect how good you are at different skills?
In language tasks girls use both sides of their brain, whereas boys only use one. This means that girls tend to be better at communicating, and have a greater ability to make connections - both crucial skills in science.
Girls also have an innate patience - possibly the most valuable attribute for a scientist. The part of the brain that reduces frustration and prevents aggression is larger in women relative to men. Girl virtues, communication skills, thoughtfulness and endurance are what every scientist requires.
10 reasons to think of a career in science...
- great social life (well… boys!)
- improve the world
- rich and famous
- your questions answered
- impress the pants off everyone
- lengthen your stuuudent life
- be your own boss
- see the world
- future female – future perfect
- be in demand
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