A strong STEM workforce is essential for economic growth, global competitiveness, and addressing societal challenges. However, retaining students in STEM, particularly underrepresented minorities (URMs), remains a challenge. Research experiences play a key role in improving student retention and graduation rates, fostering both technical and interpersonal skills. Beyond enhancing self-efficacy and confidence, research provides opportunities for students to build relationships with mentors, gaining guidance, support, and professional development that influence their academic and career trajectories. This study examines how research experiences and mentorship contribute to students’ socialization in STEM, applying the Tripartite Integration Model of Social Influence (TIMSI) to assess the impact of an intensive summer research program. Additionally, it explores differences in outcomes between URM and non-URM students. Pre- and post-program survey data (n = 187) were analyzed using paired-sample t-tests, multiple regression, and MANOVA. Results indicate that participation in the program significantly improved students’ socialization within the scientific community, with mentorship emerging as a key predictor of integration. Notably, both URM and non-URM students benefited equally, suggesting that structured research programs provide inclusive and effective support for all participants. These findings highlight the essential role of research experiences and mentorship in fostering student engagement in STEM. By enhancing retention and promoting diversity, summer research programs contribute to building a more inclusive and robust STEM workforce, addressing the ongoing challenge of representation and participation in these critical fields.

Authors:
Gino Galvez, California State University, United States
Victoria Mendez, California State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Gino Galvez is the Director of CEEE and Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), California, USA.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gino-galvez-3232ab9/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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