STEM Support for College Students

Once students enter college, the need for support systems and encouragement intensifies. A report by the National Center for Education Statistics followed a group of bachelor’s and associate degree students who entered college in a STEM-related major. By the end of the program, 48% of the four-year students and 69% of the two-year students had left the field: half moved to a different major, while others left college before earning a degree. The attrition rates in STEM fields are seen as a contributing factor to the shortage of female and minority students. Some of the best ways to keep students engaged and foster their interest in STEM studies include:

• 1. Summer research trips and internships. These opportunities are a great option for keeping students interested in STEM topics, providing real-world learning initiatives and hands-on experience. By stepping outside the classroom, students are able to see practical and creative applications for the topics they are learning about in their degree.
  2. National Societies for Women and Minorities in STEM. As more emphasis is placed on recruiting these populations to STEM career paths, numerous professional organizations and honor societies are being formed to support students in their endeavors. Most activities revolve around advocacy, education, research and funding. These societies also offer local chapters and national conferences the chance to bring groups together to discuss topics important to women and minorities in the field. Some of the most notable groups include:
     • National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering
     • National Society of Black Engineers
     • Women Chemists Committee
     • Anita Borg Institute
     • Association for Women in Mathematics
     • Minorities in Physics
     • National Society of Hispanic Physicists
     • Association for Women Geoscientists
     • National Association of Black Geoscientists
  3. Mentorships. Having a role model or mentor throughout college can be a pivotal relationship that encourages and supports students during their degrees and ultimately leads them on a path to a STEM career. Mentors are invaluable for sharing their wisdom and knowledge of the industry, helping students network and build valuable contacts, and answering any questions they may have along the way. A number of mentorship programs exist nationally, and many schools also have formal mentor programs available to students. Great examples of programs include:
     • Department of Energy
     • Arizona State University
     • Oakton Community College
     • MIT
     • University of Minnesota
  4. Career Support. Once deciding to pursue a degree in STEM, the next challenge for women and minority students is finding the right job. Many STEM departments and career support offices on college campuses now recognize this need and provide support mechanisms and networking opportunities to ensure students are qualified and competitive candidates upon graduation.