Abstract
This project has successfully completed its fourth year and has made notable progress toward its goals. Its overarching objective is to increase mechanical engineering degree completion by low-income, high-achieving undergraduates who demonstrate financial need. Program objectives include the support of scholars in their ultimate entry into the engineering workforce or graduate school; the provision of extracurricular experiences that promote thriving; and the generation of knowledge for dissemination beyond the program location. This S-STEM enterprise has been successful in recruiting, selecting and retaining women and underrepresented minorities. The program supports a diverse group of about 20 undergraduate scholars in the achievement of their educational and professional aspirations through the employment of evidence-based strategies and related endeavors. Extracurricular activities include industry presentations and professional interactions; social events; peer learning collaborations; student-faculty interaction; and in-depth one-on-one meetings with faculty advisors. Scholars have received assistance in obtaining summer internship and REU experiences, and in expanding their professional networks with national and international contacts. Regular career guidance and success coaching sessions have supported academic performance and preparation of students for future mechanical engineering achievements. S-STEM has reportedly helped improve grades and study habits; enabled greater focus and persistence; stimulated greater interest in industry; and fomented personal growth and maturity. Data currently under analysis for dissemination include retention comparisons, student performance on assignments and capstone projects, and rubric ratings by advisors and coaches. This paper showcases preliminary data in addition to more detailed depictions of extracurricular activities to demonstrate the added value of the S-STEM Scholar experience.
