In the competitive field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), grades are often seen as the ultimate measure of success and capability. Many students, especially those new to the rigorous demands of college-level courses, may feel discouraged by low grades or setbacks. However, the story shared by Ben Cichy, a successful engineer who has contributed to Mars and Moon missions, serves as a powerful reminder that grades are not the only indicator of one’s potential in STEM.
Ben Cichy candidly reveals that he started his college journey with a 2.4 GPA in his first semester, a grade that likely left him doubting his ability to succeed in engineering. For many, such a GPA might feel like a barrier, a sign that they don’t belong in such a challenging field. However, despite this initial setback, Ben did not give up. Instead, he cultivated his curiosity, stayed committed, and ultimately achieved remarkable success—helping to land spacecraft on Mars and now designing one for the Moon. His story demonstrates that perseverance, not just grades, can lead to groundbreaking achievements.
This anecdote touches on a critical point: STEM is hard for everyone, and setbacks are part of the journey. The difficulty of STEM subjects often leads students to equate their value and potential solely with their grades. But, as Ben’s story illustrates, curiosity and perseverance are the true drivers of success. The willingness to keep learning, pushing boundaries, and solving problems is what matters in the long run. A grade is just a snapshot in time; it doesn’t capture one’s potential or passion.
The importance of curiosity in STEM cannot be overstated. Engineers, scientists, and innovators rely on a deep-rooted curiosity to explore the unknown, to ask questions, and to solve complex problems. Curiosity drives one to look beyond the surface, to understand how things work, and to find innovative solutions. For Ben, this curiosity was likely a driving force that helped him overcome the self-doubt that a low GPA might have instilled. Instead of focusing solely on grades, he looked forward, remaining curious and open to learning.
Perseverance is equally important. STEM careers are not about instant results; they’re built on years of study, experimentation, and sometimes even failure. Ben’s journey to Mars and the Moon projects involved countless hours of hard work, dedication, and resilience. This unwavering perseverance, even after setbacks, allowed him to reach his goals.
This story also serves as encouragement to those who might be struggling or doubting themselves. Grades, while important, are not definitive predictors of future success. A single low grade, or even a semester of them, does not determine one’s capabilities or potential impact in the field. The message here is clear: don’t let a grade define you. Instead, let your passion, curiosity, and dedication lead the way.
For students in STEM, it’s essential to remember that their journey might be challenging, but those challenges are what make success in these fields meaningful. Every successful engineer, scientist, or mathematician has faced obstacles. Those who continue to learn and grow, despite setbacks, often achieve the most remarkable breakthroughs.
In conclusion, Ben Cichy’s story is a testament to the fact that grades are not the end-all-be-all in STEM. Curiosity and perseverance are far more valuable qualities, enabling individuals to achieve feats they once might have thought impossible. For students who might be discouraged by a low GPA or struggling with challenging subjects, let this story be a reminder: the journey is tough, but if you stay curious and committed, you can accomplish great things.