Follow-Up of a Program to Improve Undergraduate and Graduate Nursing Student Diversity

Abstract

Background: Underrepresented student recruitment is critical to resolve persistent gaps in workforce diversity in the United States. Purpose: Prenursing and nursing students participated in a nursing workforce diversity program designed to recruit and graduate underrepresented students, which provided academic and student support, financial support, and mentoring. A follow-up study was conducted to identify the impact of the program. Methods: Participants were surveyed about educational and employment information, perceptions about factors that contributed to success, benefits of the program, and educational experience. Descriptive summaries of data and thematic analysis of qualitative comments occurred. Results: Financial support, program quality, mentoring, career guidance, and meeting basic security needs were the strongest factors contributing to success. Program benefit themes included: feeling empowered, encouraging success, building confidence, and easing financial strain. Negative experiences with discrimination and bias were reported. Conclusions: Cocurricular support can help facilitate belonging. Scholarship awards communicate belief in student success, which impacts confidence and achievement.