I am no stranger to the opposite sex. They’re everywhere. But men are especially prevalent in every political science class.Â
I can’t escape.
My major is political science with a minor in history. So men, especially Corps guys, are a huge demographic in these classes.Â
However, this means that most of the students called on are men. Professors prefer to hear from men. I suppose even the professors love a man in uniform.Â
But it’s a pretty common habit for me to hear my classmates more than my professors.Â
That indicates a huge pattern. When working with men, dealing with them for group projects, or even in a work setting, they have to be heard more than anyone. Their voice, their opinion, is what matters most. It’s hard to get a word in or even try to voice an opinion.
I want to be a lawyer, another career field that’s mostly dominated by men. 58% of lawyers are men (American Bar Association). So in a world where it seems like one voice matters more than the other, speaking up is more important.
I truly believe that pluralism is the foundation of every successful society. The world, especially the U.S., needs more lawyers who are women, who are people of color.Â
People will always speak over a more feminine voice, but that doesn’t mean silence is the answer.Â
I love raising my hand in class, even if I don’t get called on, and I hear the long responses from others; I put myself out there.Â