I asked three women of different ages and backgrounds across Georgia Southern’s campus this question to see if their answers would differ. The responses I got were both empowering and complex. Here is what they had to say.
Britney, a sophomore studying exercise science, gave a powerful response. She said, “To me, being a woman in today’s society means balancing a lot of expectations while still trying to stay true to yourself.” She continued, “As women, we are expected to be strong, independent, successful, and caring all at the same time, which can feel like a lot of pressure. Women today have more opportunities and more of a voice than ever before, and that right there is growth!”
While her words highlighted progress and empowerment, she also acknowledged the challenges that still exist.
Brittany explained, “There are still challenges we face, like stereotypes and being judged more harshly. I think being a woman now means learning to define your own path instead of letting society define or control the narrative we have set for ourselves.”
Her reflection captures the dual reality many women experience today of increased opportunity alongside ongoing societal pressures. It encourages women to stay grounded in who they are, despite outside expectations.
Another sophomore studying mechanical engineering, who asked to stay anonymous, also shared her perspective. She said, “Being a woman today is powerful and joyful. It’s the freedom to grow, to feel deeply, and to live boldly and determined in who we are.”
Her words reflect a sense of confidence and self-awareness that many young women are still developing, especially between the ages of 17 and 25, when they are still learning, evolving, and discovering who they are. During this stage of life, growth often comes through a series of trials and errors and coming to terms with the idea that it’s okay to mess up. Trust me, my freshman year I made many mistakes, but I’m still learning. The downside to society is that it does not always allow women that grace. There is often an unspoken expectation to be a caregiver or to look polished at all times. Many women feel pressure to keep a smile on their faces even when life feels. Overwhelming.
I mean, how many times have you heard, “Why are you not smiling?” from some random person on the street.
Furthermore, vulnerability is sometimes mistaken for weakness, and our strength is too often measured by silence. But that silence is exactly why we need to keep talking.
My last interviewee was Iyniah, a junior studying marketing, and she spoke on gaining recognition and respect in male-dominated spaces and how it can be incredibly hard for women to “earn” respect simply because they are women. She said, “Being a woman in today’s society can be rewarding yet extremely challenging. We have made room for ourselves, outperforming our counterparts and leading in education. Yet it can be challenging to gain recognition and respect, especially in male-dominated spaces, where biases and stereotypes often undermine women’s contributions and achievements. I am so proud of the women today. We are resilient and continue to chase our dreams.” Women deserve as much as men, even if they don’t act like “one of the guys.”
Since March is Women’s History Month, I wanted to take the time to highlight how women feel existing in today’s society. Every single woman interviewed gave a unique and powerful perspective. Some of the words that stood out include “respect,” “truth,” “resilience,” “growth,” and “individuality.”
The women of Georgia Southern proved that there is not just one definition of womanhood, but various powerful stories that shape the personal experiences and help guide women who are still learning and growing. The women who came before us paved the way so we would not have to shrink ourselves to fit society’s expectations of what a woman “should” be. I wanted to write this article to remind all women not to let society put them in a box.
Don’t let anyone limit your voice, your ideas, or your identity.
Live boldly, live authentically, and live in the way that feels true to you.
