When Loretta walked into her Year 12 physics class, she was the only girl in the room. “I just wasn’t friends with anyone in that class, and it felt like I stood out. So, I dropped it,” she admits.
Today, Loretta is pursuing a double degree in Civil Engineering and Architecture here, and is one of the few women from her high school class still pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects at the University.
Her journey raises a bigger question: why do so many girls leave maths and science behind, even when they’re good at it? We sat down with Loretta to hear her perspective.
Did you always enjoy maths at school?
Loretta: Yes, I always found maths interesting. I liked the challenge of working through problems and the satisfaction of solving them. My mum studied civil engineering in the Philippines, and she encouraged me to stick with maths from a really young age.
What was your school experience like with science subjects?
Loretta: Honestly, I didn’t love science as much. I was the only girl in my physics class, and I felt so out of place I ended up dropping it. I stuck with chemistry and biology, but maths was always where I felt most at home.
Even when girls are getting good results, they don’t always believe they’re good at maths. I felt that too.
Loretta
Why do you think many girls stop maths in high school?
Loretta: I think a lot of girls just don’t enjoy it, or don’t see its value. But I also think confidence plays a huge part. Even when girls are getting good results, they don’t always believe they’re good at maths. I felt that too.
What role do teachers play in encouraging students to continue in STEM?
Loretta: Teachers make a massive difference. At uni I have an amazing maths lecturer who genuinely cares about what he’s teaching and his students’ success. That kind of support builds confidence and makes you want to stick with it.
How does the gender balance feel in engineering at Sydney?
Loretta: It depends on the stream. Civil is quite balanced, while fields like software or mechatronics are still very male-dominated. But societies like the Women in Engineering group make a big difference. They organise events, mentoring, and networking, which really help you feel like you belong.
How important are role models for women in STEM?
Loretta: Incredibly important. If you don’t see women succeeding in STEM, it can be hard to imagine yourself in those roles. My mum’s example shaped me, and I hope that by being here, other girls see that engineering is something they can do too.
What advice would you give to girls studying advanced maths at school?
Loretta: Stick with it, even if you doubt yourself. Confidence doesn’t always match results, you might be doing better than you think. Keep revising, keep building your understanding, and trust that you’re capable.
Professor Eddie Woo says that improving student confidence and more qualified teachers are essential
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LinkLoretta’s journey is just one example of what’s possible when talent is supported and encouraged. Maths and science aren’t about being a genius, they’re about persistence and belonging.
Philanthropic initiatives like the Khuda Family Foundation STEM Program are opening the door for thousands of young women to achieve in STEM careers.