Feeling Like an “Alien” or “Family”? Comparing Student and Faculty Experiences of Diversity in STEM Disciplines at a Historically Black University and a Predominantly White Institution

• In Event: Closer Examiniations of the Historically Black College and University Environment

Abstract

There are persistent racial disparities in the participation of students of color in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) within undergraduate and graduate programs. This exploration of diversity experiences in STEM disciplines presents data from interviews with undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty members at a historically Black college or university (HBCU) and a predominantly White institution (PWI) in a Mid-Atlantic state. Findings suggest that students and faculty at the HBCU perceived STEM disciplines to be diverse and also viewed their programs and the institution to be supportive of their needs. Students and faculty at the PWI voiced institutional struggles with diversity and feelings of exclusion. The level of diversity may matter to how students experience inclusion in their programs.

Authors

• Rachelle Winkle-Wagner, University of Wisconsin

• Dorian L. McCoy, Louisiana State University