While the U.S. government initiatives to expand student interest and participation in STEM may increase student achievement on paper, what the U.S. government forgets is that students need a fully-rounded education. Therefore, student potential rises above any number on a chart, so the value of the initiatives does not match that of a STEAM. Education in the United States of America, compared to those of Asian countries (like China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore), constantly ranks low, but focusing more on STEM will only help the numbers (not the country). A well-rounded education that includes everything the STEM pathway offers and more. According to Deborah Fitzgerald, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor, their students …show more content…
Most higher-end positions require a Bachelor's degree and some specialization. However, according to a survey completed by employers, they highly value “ethical judgement and integrity" (Source D). Not to overgeneralize, but all of the students in STEM programs can do well, but only a select few achieve it. Firstly, a student can have perfect grades and outstanding participation but only meet the minimum standards, as teachers expect so much from them. There will always be someone who outperforms them. Secondly, a student can have a background in STEM (either self-taught or not) and pursue their passion. For example, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta (formerly known as Facebook), “became an avid student of Greek and Latin” during his high school years (Source C). Although Zuckerberg attended Harvard University from 2002-2004, his focus was not solely STEM. He had a well-rounded education, allowing for creativity and innovation. The STEM pathway provides students with the knowledge, and the STEAM track provides students with the knowledge, creative freedom, and innovative