Have you ever noticed that everyone has their own way of learning and solving problems? That’s because we all have different types of intelligence! Being “smart” doesn’t just mean being good at math or reading—it could mean creating art, understanding nature, or even connecting with others.
The best part? No matter what you’re great at, there’s a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) career that fits your unique strengths. Let’s explore the eight intelligences and see how they can lead to some awesome STEM opportunities!
To explore even more career possibilities, check out the STEMforGIRLS Learning Lab! With interactive tools, career guides, and hands-on activities, the Learning Lab is your ultimate resource for exploring STEM and skilled trades careers—and planning an exciting future in the world of STEM.
1. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence (Number Smart)
Do you love puzzles, patterns, and numbers? Logical-mathematical intelligence is about recognizing patterns, making predictions, analyzing data, and thinking logically.
STEM Career Match:
Logical thinkers are great at building algorithms, designing systems, and understanding how the world works through math and science.
2. Linguistic Intelligence (Word Smart)
Are you good at expressing yourself with words? Do you enjoy reading, writing, or public speaking? Linguistic intelligence focuses on communication.
STEM Career Match:
Linguistic skills are essential for explaining complex STEM ideas clearly and persuasively.
3. Visual-Spatial Intelligence (Picture Smart)
Do you think in pictures and enjoy designing or building things? Visual-spatial intelligence is about understanding shapes, spaces, and visualizing solutions.
STEM Career Match:
Visual-spatial thinkers often excel in creating blueprints, 3D models, or visualizing data in innovative ways.
4. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence (Body Smart)
Do you learn best by doing? Do you enjoy hands-on activities like building, crafting, or sports? Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence is about using your body to solve problems or create things.
STEM Career Match:
These careers require excellent hand-eye coordination and a deep understanding of how things work in the physical world.
5. Musical Intelligence (Sound Smart)
Do you have a good ear for music or rhythm? Musical intelligence involves recognizing patterns in sound and using them creatively.
STEM Career Match:
Music lovers can contribute to STEM by designing better sound systems or exploring the science of sound.
6. Interpersonal Intelligence (People Smart)
Do you enjoy working with others and understanding their feelings? Interpersonal intelligence is about empathy and teamwork.
STEM Career Match:
Interpersonal skills are crucial for collaboration, leadership, and communication in STEM fields.
7. Intrapersonal Intelligence (Self Smart)
Do you know yourself well and enjoy setting personal goals? Intrapersonal intelligence is about self-awareness and introspection.
STEM Career Match:
Intrapersonal thinkers are excellent at focusing deeply on projects and reflecting on how their work impacts the world.
8. Naturalistic Intelligence (Nature Smart)
Do you feel connected to nature and enjoy studying plants, animals, or the environment? Naturalistic intelligence is about understanding and working with the natural world.
STEM Career Match:
Naturalistic thinkers play a key role in protecting our planet and developing sustainable solutions.
Discover Your Path
Recognizing your strongest intelligences can help you find a STEM career that feels natural and exciting. And here’s a secret: most jobs use more than one type of intelligence. For example, an engineer might combine logical, visual-spatial, and interpersonal skills to design and present a new invention. Want to find out what your strengths are? Take this quiz.
Explore Further with STEMforGIRLS Learning Lab
Are you ready to take the next step? Sign up for a free STEMforGIRLS Learning Lab account to discover even more about how your unique strengths align with STEM and skilled trades careers. With interactive tools, career exploration guides, and hands-on learning activities, the Learning Lab is your go-to resource for planning an exciting future in STEM.