Research by Mitchell Chang indicates that the chances of completing a STEM degree increase by 2 percentage points for every 10-point reduction in the average SAT score of a university. This suggests that a student's perception of their peers' intelligence can greatly influence their educational outcomes. As students see themselves surrounded by more academically gifted individuals, they may feel inadequate, leading to a higher likelihood of withdrawal from science programs.

This phenomenon highlights the psychological impact of peer dynamics in educational settings. The correlation suggests that environments where students perceive themselves as more capable relative to their peers can foster persistence and success in challenging fields like STEM. Gladwell’s exploration of these themes in "David and Goliath" further emphasizes how perceived disadvantages may actually serve as a catalyst for resilience and achievement.