The Effects of Purposeful Academic, Social, and Professional Interventions on Diverse Undergraduate STEM Student Socialization

• In Event: Educational Interventions in Higher Education

Abstract

Research has shown that one of the critical factors that contribute to the withdrawal of undergraduates from science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) majors is unsupportive social environments within undergraduate STEM departments. In this study, the Strategic Undergraduate STEM Talent Acceleration INitiative (SUSTAIN) provided a coherent ecosystem of academic, social, and career support services strategically designed for a diverse cohort of high-achieving, low-income STEM students during their first and second years of undergraduate study. Results showed that students reported the SUSTAIN interventions helped them overcome transition challenges and adjust to college life as a STEM student. Findings were discussed in terms of the efficacy of our evidence-based interventions designed to enhance students’ success and their persistence in STEM.

Authors

• Gaye D. Ceyhan, Bogazici University

• Alia Thompson, Syracuse University

• John W. Tillotson, Syracuse University