Understanding the Complexities of Financial Support for Students in Grant-Funded STEM Training Programs

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Thirteen
  In Roundtable Session: Back to the Basics: Advancing the Conversation in STEM (Table 2)

Abstract

What are the lessons learned from providing financial support to students involved in grant-funded STEM initiatives? We examine student perspectives from the Building Infrastructure Leading to Diversity (BUILD) grant, funded by the National Institutes of Health from the lens of sociocultural understandings of money out of behavioral economics and sociology. Findings indicate that BUILD funding led to reductions in financial stress and access to career training; however, the impact of aid was hampered by limitations in funding and financial aid processes. This study has implications for federal funding agencies, foundations, and higher education institutions, specifically how disbursement processes can be improved to reduce harmful consequences for student recipients.

Authors

• Ana L. Romero, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Krystle Cobian, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Patricia Martin, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Christian Cabunag
  Presenting Author