Examining the Impact of Perceived Experiences on STEM Identity and Career Aspirations Among Underrepresented Youth

• In Event: Identity and Career Interest in Science Education

Abstract

Various programs for marginalized young people have been intentionally designed to increase the diversity in STEM careers; however, racially and ethnically minoritized individuals’ participation in STEM disciplines continued to be underrepresented. Using identity theory and drawing data from an NSF-funded survey of 1,134 participants, these regression analyses examine the impact of prior educational experiences on STEM identity and career aspirations among individuals attending at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). The study’s findings indicate that although positive reinforcement positively correlates with the STEM identity construct, the efforts are not always supportive enough to predict STEM career aspirations for minoritized individuals. It underscores the importance of explicitly designing appropriate interventions to support STEM identity formation and STEM career pursuit.

Authors

• Amdad A. Awsaf, Florida International University

• Remy Dou, University of Miami

• Gerhard Sonnert, Harvard University

• Philip M. Sadler, Harvard University