Overcoming Doubt and Finding Belonging: A Phenomenological Exploration of Women’s Experiences in Male-Dominated Majors

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Critical Examination of Race, Ethnicity, Class, and Gender Roundtable: Experiences of Minoritized Students and Educators in STEM and Male-Dominated Fields

Abstract

This phenomenological study explores the major choice experiences of 13 nontraditional women enrolled in male-dominated majors at two- and four-year institutions. Through two rounds of semi-structured interviews, six themes emerged, including the importance of personal interests, career stability, and female role models. Participants described overcoming self-doubt and discouragement—especially from male peers—while drawing motivation from family, professors, and work experiences. Findings highlight the interplay between gender and nontraditional status in shaping academic decisions. This study underscores the need for targeted advising, early exposure to career options, and increased representation to support women in male-dominated fields.

Authors

• Erin Flowers, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

• Amanda L. Nolen, Georgia Institute of Technology