Understanding the complexities of financial support for students in grant-funded STEMM training programs.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Sciences
• STEMM Education
• Higher Education

Background:

• Campuses offer financial support for students in grant-funded STEMM training.
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH) funds initiatives like the Building Infrastructure Leading to Diversity (BUILD) program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine undergraduate students' perspectives on financial support received through the NIH-funded BUILD program.
• To understand the impact of financial aid on students' participation in STEMM training.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative data were collected from 122 undergraduate participants in 10 NIH-sponsored BUILD programs.
• Generic qualitative inquiry and Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) were used for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Students perceived BUILD funding as reducing financial stress and increasing access to career training.
• Limitations in funding amounts and financial aid processes hindered the full impact of the aid.
• Financial support facilitated college entry and participation in biomedical research.

Conclusions:

• BUILD financial support positively influences students' academic and professional paths.
• Challenges with campus financial aid processes negatively affect student recipients.
• Innovative disbursement strategies are needed to enhance financial support for students in STEMM training.