The notion that successful girls will automatically become successful, fulfilled women is incorrect. The specific need for building resilience among girls shows itself in the continuing dropping out of professional careers among women. Forty percent leave professions mid-career and more than half exit science, engineering, and mathematics careers. Resilience in competition and coping with unfriendly environments for women still play major roles that lead to inequities. The middle school years are crucial for sensitizing girls to the strength and perseverance required to make contributions to society. Examples of programs for teaching resilience are shared.