STEM Identity Negotiations of First-Generation Latinas

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 3:45 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Identity development and support networks among STEM college students and professionals from non-dominant communities

Abstract

This narrative study uses LatCrit as a theoretical lens to examine the testimonios of first-generation-in-college Latina STEM undergraduate students. Three Latina STEM undergraduate students who identify as first-generation-in-college were interviewed about how they negotiated tensions between their social identities and their STEM identity. Three unstructured interviews or pláticas were conducted with each participant. Two common themes were identified: challenges with being a Latina in STEM and challenges with doubting their STEM competence.

Author

• Rocio Vaneza Quiroga Velasquez, George Mason University