A Medical Pipeline Program's Effect on Underrepresented Minority Middle School Females' Career Decidedness

• In Event: Promoting Diversity in the Professions — Paper Session

Abstract

A middle school biomedical and research pipeline program utilized career development and STEM engagement practices to increase retention and reduce dysfunction career thinking (DCT) in underrepresented minority (URM) females (n=116). A causal comparative design using repeated measures MANOVAs measured the effect of the intervention on career decidedness and indecision among URM females using the Career Decision Scale (CDS). Findings suggest slight increases in career decidedness in African American and Hispanic females indicating participation in the intervention increased career decidedness over time as compared to their White and Asian female counterparts. The study adds to the sparse career development research in STEM, seeking to uncover techniques to increase retention in biomedical science and research careers for minority females.

Authors

• Nirmala Prakash, Florida Atlantic University

• Jennifer Prevot, Florida Atlantic University