By Sara Jones
At Raleigh Charter High School, a group of students is working to make science, technology, engineering, and math more welcoming for everyone. The Girls Who Talk STEM Club is creating a space where female students can explore their interests in STEM while building confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of community.
The club brings together students who are curious about fields that have historically had fewer women represented in them. Through meetings, discussions, and hands-on activities, members learn about different STEM careers and support each other in pursuing their goals.
Club president Pranitha Chalamalasetti said the organization was originally started to give girls a place where their ideas and interests in science could be encouraged.
“We wanted to create a space where girls could talk openly about STEM and feel confident asking questions or sharing ideas,” Chalamalasetti said. “A lot of people are interested in these subjects but sometimes they just need the right environment to explore them.”
Each meeting focuses on different topics within STEM. Students might discuss emerging technologies, hear from guest speakers, or work together on small projects that involve problem solving and creativity. These activities help members see how STEM applies to real world challenges.
The club also encourages students to take on leadership roles and collaborate with one another. According to Chalamalasetti, building these skills is just as important as learning technical concepts.
“STEM is not only about solving equations or writing code,” Chalamalasetti said. “It is also about teamwork, communication, and leadership. We want our members to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and leading discussions.”
For many students, joining the club has helped them discover new interests and build confidence. Student leader Gita Satyavolu said the supportive environment has made a big difference.
“Before joining the club, I was interested in science but I was not always confident speaking up,” Satyavolu said. “Now I feel more comfortable sharing my ideas and working with other people who are passionate about the same things.”
Satyavolu said the club shows students that STEM careers are possible for anyone who is curious and willing to learn.
“It is really inspiring to see other girls who want to go into fields like engineering or technology,” Satyavolu said. “Being around people who support each other makes you feel like you can actually achieve those goals.”
Across the country, there has been increasing attention on the importance of encouraging more women to pursue careers in science and technology. By starting these conversations within the school community, Girls Who Talk STEM is helping connect RCHS students to a larger movement focused on representation and opportunity.
Beyond academics, members say the club has also created lasting friendships. Meetings often include brainstorming sessions, group discussions, and moments where students share their experiences in classes or competitions. Those connections are a big part of what keeps students coming back. Members say the club feels less like a formal meeting and more like a supportive community. Looking ahead, the club hopes to expand its activities by inviting more guest speakers, organizing STEM related workshops, and encouraging more students to get involved.
Chalamalasetti said the goal is to continue growing the club while making sure it remains a welcoming place for anyone interested in learning.
“We want more students to realize that STEM can be exciting and accessible,” Chalamalasetti said. “Our club is about empowering girls to explore their interests and supporting each other along the way.”
As the club continues to grow, Girls Who Talk STEM is helping shape a future where more female students at RCHS feel confident pursuing careers in science and technology. For many members, the club is not only about learning new skills but also about discovering their own potential.
