Michelle Obama encourages girls to pursue science careers

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First Lady Michelle Obama held an event in the East Room today talking about the importance of supporting and retaining women in girls in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers.Her statement came today as the National Science Foundation announced a plan to give more flexibility to men and women who are pursuing science/research careers. The plan, called the “Career-Life Balance Initiative” will allow researchers to delay or suspend grants for up to a year because of the birth of a child, adoption or other family obligations.

“If we’re going to out innovate and out educate the rest of the world, we’ve got to open doors for everyone and that means clearing hurdles for women and girls as they navigate careers in science, technology, engineering and math.” - Michelle Obama