What Predicts Successful Career Entry? Evolving Understanding of One Program’s Graduates

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 10:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Catalysts for Success: Novel Approaches to Student Support and Achievement (Table 8)

Abstract

This follow-up study of the career success of scholars in a six-year program for high-achieving marginalized students includes data from a second graduation class. We conducted regression analyses to determine predictors placement in a meaningful first-destination, starting salary, and sense of control. Our first aanalysis using only one class’ data showed that graduating with a STEM degree positively predicted salary earnings and having three or more professional connections nearly predicted attaining a meaningful first-destination placement. The new results indicate that STEM degree continues to be predictive of salary earnings, but having STEM degree and a higher college GPA is predictive of placement. Results underscore the importance of overall academic success—and STEM in particular—for both career placement and earning potential.

Authors

• Emily Parrott, Thrive Scholars

• Jarell Skinner-Roy, University of Michigan