Science, technology, engineering and mathematics jobs are often marketed as secure, high-paying, and in demand careers.
But college students say the pressure to prove themselves in STEM begins much earlier than expected.
Evelyn Flores, a UNC Chapel Hill second-year student, has submitted four lab experience applications on campus, only to be rejected. To qualify for future internships, she applied to research opportunities, only to be denied.
“Am I doing enough right now to ensure my best chances once I graduate?” she asked.