An Intervention Strategy Specialized for Female STEM Undergraduate Students in Puerto Rico

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Four
  In Roundtable Session: Strategies for Opportunity: Examining How Race and Place Limit Access to Resources and Curricular Programs for All (Table 1)

Abstract

This paper presents findings from an evaluation of an online mentoring and social networking program designed to enhance female STEM undergraduate students’ participation in Puerto Rico’s higher education system. Eight successful female STEM professionals were matched with 12 female Puerto Rican students pursuing a STEM academic major. The mentors shared academic and professional experiences and knowledge with students during synchronous sessions and one-on-one communications. Qualitative findings demonstrated an improvement in students’ confidence and motivation to persist in STEM environments after receiving mentoring. Students also reported higher post-test scores than pre-test scores on math-related task self-efficacy survey. The intervention encountered limitations in the implementation, including sample size, study setting, and timeframe. Recommendations regarding STEM mentoring and social networking are discussed.

Authors

• Elsa Trujillo, LEAD Pathways, LLC
  Presenting Author

• Marcia H. Davis, Johns Hopkins University
  Presenting Author