BUILDing SCHOLARS: A program exemplar at a Hispanic serving institution to develop biomedical researchers

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Sciences
• STEM Education
• Student Development

Background:

• The BUILDing SCHOLARS Center at UT El Paso aims to increase diversity in the biomedical research workforce.
• The program targets undergraduate students for advanced graduate and professional biomedical degree programs.
• The Johnson/Bozemann Asset Bundles model was adopted to support minority students in STEM careers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Asset Bundles model in preparing undergraduate students for advanced STEM degrees.
• To assess the impact of the program on student retention, academic performance, and pursuit of graduate studies.
• To identify factors contributing to the attrition of talented Hispanic students from STEM programs.

Main Methods:

• The program integrated five asset bundles: educational endowments, science socialization, network development, family expectations, and material resources.
• Students participated in a minimum of two years of research training.
• Validated scales measured science identity and research self-efficacy; academic metrics (retention, GPA, time to degree) and post-graduation outcomes were tracked.

Main Results:

• Program participants showed significant improvements in retention, 4-year graduation rates, and entry into advanced degrees compared to a control group.
• The Asset Bundles approach demonstrated effectiveness in retaining students and preparing them for STEM careers.
• Analysis of academic and non-academic metrics confirmed the program's positive impact.

Conclusions:

• The Asset Bundles model is an effective strategy for supporting minority students in STEM and preparing them for advanced degrees.
• The study identified key factors influencing the retention and success of students in STEM fields.
• Findings suggest interventions to address the "push-out" of talented Hispanic students from STEM pathways.