Sí Se Puede, Adelante: Latina/o Peer Coaches Break Barriers, Persist, and Graduate in STEM

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Latina/o/x Research Issues SIG Poster Session

Abstract

This present study is part of a larger study that developed a peer-to-peer coaching program at a private four-year Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). The peer coaching program was intended to promote persistence among first-year STEM Latina/o students (mentees) through the support of upperclassmen STEM Latina/o peer coaches (mentors). Findings from previous studies indicate peer coach support significantly impacted the first-year persistence of their ethnic peers. This qualitative study provides evidence that peer coaches were never afforded the opportunity to have a social support system until they became coaches. Findings indicate peer coaches benefited from being coaches in their college transition through graduation by aiding them in gaining personal growth, confidence, and self-awareness to push forward and break barriers.

Authors

• Carmen Cruz, 1st-Gen Scholars

• Geetu Rajpal, Saint Mary's University of San Antonio