Experience of STEM-Interested Students in a Career Planning Course: A Qualitative

Abstract

Postsecondary retention of students in STEM continues to be a challenge. Access to mentorship, experiential learning activities, and lack of intentional K-12 preparation impact retention in STEM for students of color in particular. Career development interventions that provide focus on self-exploration, career decision-making, and career thoughts can increase retention and decidedness for students. The purpose of this qualitative study was to illuminate the experiences of undergraduate STEM interested students (specifically students of color) in a STEM focused career planning course. Our primary research question was, “How do students in a STEM focused career planning course describe their experiences from the course?” The researchers found that, overall, students had a positive experience in the class and it helped them find mentorship, become more decided in a major, and learn about the world of work.