How Much Of What I Learned In School

By Nehemiah Mabry

“How much of what I learned in school do I really use on my [STEM] job?” That's an intriguing question, prompting a fair bit of reflection. Regularly in my job, I reference specific statics equations. The geometric elements of my engineering discipline demand a solid grasp on basic trigonometric functions. But if I were to gauge it from an overall percentage standpoint, the answer would be "not much." I deploy only a fraction of the precise facts I absorbed – that's the technical side of things.

Interestingly, this query found its way to STEMedia (the ed tech and media company I founded and run for diverse, technical workforce development). And I believe it resonates with many who weary from memorizing artists of a certain era or writing intricate chemical symbols. So, let me lay it out plainly: While I've forgotten numerous academic details (and would quickly Google them without a second thought), that's to be expected. But stepping back, I realize I've integrated a vast amount from my scholastic journey into my life. Beyond memorizing facts and figures, I mastered vital skills: meeting deadlines, collaborating with diverse teams, managing time, and troubleshooting challenges. School wasn't just about information absorption; it was about flexing and fortifying our mental muscles for future endeavors.

Reflecting on my time as a Bridge Design Engineer, not every mathematical theorem I scribbled down during college tests has been applied. And I've certainly not used the weight training from my elective courses in a professional context. However, just as weightlifting prepped me for subsequent basketball matches, my academic journey, both formal and informal, bolstered my intellectual strength. This mental conditioning has enabled me to tackle complex problems, charting a course even when none is evident. For those pondering, "How much of this will be relevant in my career?" bear in mind: it's less about specific content and more about the learning process. I often equate school to an extensive mental gym session – it's all about mental strength and conditioning. And yes, there are nonconventional avenues to flex these mental muscles, which I wholeheartedly advocate.

I'd offer a word of caution to budding Engineers, Scientists, or any emerging STEM professionals quick to dismiss seemingly unrelated electives. I'm convinced they serve a broader purpose. When asked, “How much of what I learn in school will I apply in my career?” my response is, “Pretty much all of it.” Because, at the end of the day, it isn't about reaching the destination or acing every quiz. It's about the growth and transformation during the educational voyage. Commit to every learning phase wholeheartedly, and I guarantee the rewards will be manifold.

About the Author www.stemedia.com www.nehemiahmabry.com stemedia nehemiahmabry www.linkedin.com/company/

Dr. Nehemiah Mabry, P.E. (affectionately known as Dr. Nee) is an Engineer, Educator and Entrepreneur based in Raleigh, North Carolina His technical experience includes 15+ years as a NASA Researcher, Bridge Design Engineer, and Adjunct Professor Dr Mabry is also the CEO and Founder of STEMedia Incorporated, which he started as a graduate student in 2012. STEMedia is an edtech and digital media company that provides creative content and career development for the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) community Since its inception, they have won international awards, engaged thousands through lectures and presentations, and partnered with several corporations, organizations and academic institutions in STEM outreach.