Crossing the Finish Line: Black Collegians Achieving Success in STEM With Support From a STEM Enrichment Program

• In Event: Roundtable Session 21
  In Roundtable Session: Enhancing the Learning of African American Students in STEM Subjects

Abstract

This paper is a part of a larger case study that examines a STEM enrichment program designed to aid academically underprepared, underrepresented minorities (URMs) in STEM fields at a large, public, predominantly White research university. Black program participants and graduates will inform this paper through usage of their perceptions of and experiences with the program in facilitating their academic and social adjustment in the STEM disciplines. Preliminary findings indicate that students who participate in the program achieve higher predicted GPAs and improve math placement exams scores allowing them to bypass remedial courses and increase likelihood of degree completion. Qualitative findings reveal three emerging themes: community of scholars, “trust the process”, and relationships with faculty and staff.

Author

• Tonisha B. Lane, Michigan State University