How to get more women into STEM fields and more men into behavioral science?

When looking at scientific careers women are overrepresented in behavioral science and men in physical science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). According to a U.S. study, behavioral science corresponds more to characteristics aiming at maintaining relationships and working to the service of others (called communion), which correspond more closely to gender stereotypes of women. STEM fields align with characteristics focusing on autonomy and self-promotion (called agency), which are regarded as more stereotypical of men. The surprising insight of this study: The more women view STEM fields to be communal, the more STEM courses they complete and the more men view behavioral science to be agentic, the more behavioral science courses they complete.

Stout, J. G., Grunberg, V. A., & Ito, T. A. (2016). Gender roles and stereotypes about science careers help explain women and men’s science pursuits. Sex Roles, 75, 490-499. doi:10.1007/s11199-016-0647-5
 

Find a satisfying and fitting job after graduation through career planning

Besides job search behaviors, career planning after graduation leads to an increase in fit with one's future job and organization. This in turn increases job satisfaction, according to a study with Canadian graduates. Graduates with a plan for their career are thus more likely to find a job and organization that fits them.

Journal of Applied Psychology

The positive side of career barriers : Perceived difficulties in career can motivate career engagement

University students who report more barriers in their career development (e.g., lack of support, unfavorable labor market) are more engaged in proactive career behaviors, such as networking or career exploration, according to a German study. However, the positive effect of career barriers only emerged when students also had high confidence in their abilities to master challenges at work. The results suggest that barriers combined with confidence can spur engagement in career development.

Journal of Vocational Behavior

Career engagement during university leads to more job and career satisfaction after graduation

University students who are more active in their self-directed career management report higher job and career satisfaction in their jobs several months after graduation, according to a German study. If students remain passive regarding their career while at university they have a higher change of landing in less satisfying jobs.

Journal of Career Assessment