Acompañandonos: Latinas’ Collective Development of STEM IDs for Navigating the Leaky STEM Pipeline

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: STEM Student Identities, Experiences, and Outcomes (Table 4)

Abstract

Research indicates Latinos are underrepresented in STEM, with Latina students facing unique challenges. Throughout the STEM pipeline, which encompasses the educational journey of STEM majors from school to the professional world, various factors create "leaks" through which Latina students disengage from the STEM pathways. These factors include imposter syndrome and feelings of isolation, leading to a lack of sense of belonging. It is important to recognize that many Latina students come from backgrounds where community support is encouraged and necessary for fostering a strong sense of identity in STEM, also known as a STEM ID. Acknowledging this issue’s urgency is crucial, as it can guide STEM institutions in identifying ways to provide further support and accompaniment (acompañamiento) to Latina students.

Authors

• Adriana Quiros-Arauz, Chapman University

• Cristal B. Flores, Chapman University