This project is providing approximately 28 scholarships over five years for financially disadvantaged and underrepresented students. Selected students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, earth sciences, mathematics or physics with identified financial need are receiving up to $5,000 of scholarship support annually. The program is promoting an increase in the number of underrepresented STEM students, improved retention of students in the STEM disciplines, and is targeting 90% or better placement of STEM graduates in jobs and professional or graduate schools. The Management Team includes faculty from six STEM disciplines plus assistance from support staff in admissions, financial aid, information technology, and academic learning services.
Support structures for the STEM Scholars include faculty mentoring, tutoring, peer mentoring, living learning communities, and a workshop series that develops academic skills, explores career options, and prepares students for placement after graduation. Co-ops and undergraduate research offer additional capstone opportunities for the students. Assessment includes annual analysis of retention data and use of student focus groups and exit surveys.
Recruitment and retention approaches are being analyzed to identify sustainable strategies that can be applied for all STEM students at Millersville University and other institutions. Information on successful program elements is being disseminated via STEM Scholars website and via presentations at regional and national meetings and publications.
