Learners in senior high school who are enrolled in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) strand frequently experiencing some challenges both academic and household responsibility. Some of STEM-related subjects in these programs requires significant amount of time such as Calculus, Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Research Projects.

In addition of academic tasks, learners also have a responsibility within their household and provide care for other members of the family. Because of these two roles, many students experience stress, fatigue, and being overwhelmed. However, this also helps develop resilience and discipline. Academic deadlines versus family obligations presents a huge challenge for many students. The student has to pressure themselves in order to achieve common goals within their education, which in turn creates more motivation to push the student to do even more academically and stress at the same time. At the same time, the student has family obligations, which continuously remind them of the responsibilities they have outside of school. Because of these two areas of responsibility, many students sacrifice sleep, develop anxiety, and are unable to manage their academic and family obligations appropriately.

As a result, many students develop skills to cope with these challenges (e.g., organizing their schedules, developing time management strategies, and prioritizing) that help them to overcome the hurdles and be successful. Students need appropriate support systems to assist them in dealing with the challenges of being a senior high school student in the STEM Strand. Family members, friends, and compassionate teachers can help relieve some of the stress placed on students. Students are also motivated by their own personal goals and aspirations to achieve success no matter how tough the challenge is.

Struggling to balance both academic and household responsibilities is not only a challenge, but also an opportunity to learn how to be resilient and responsible as an individual. In addition to the heavy amount of pressure that students face every day, they also develop strategies and harness other resources to help them succeed, both in the classroom and home.

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