Making room for diversity makes sense

TitleMaking room for diversity makes sense
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2001
AuthorsRey CM
JournalScience
Volume293
Pagination1611
KeywordsAdvising, Culture, Diversity Institute Literature Review, Financial aid, Mentoring, Minorities, Recruitment, Retention, Social support, Special programs, Women
SummaryThis article profiles three successful diversity programs for underrepresented students in the sciences: the Biology Scholars Program (BSP) at the University of California-Berkeley, the Science, Technology and Research Scholars (STARS) program at Yale, and the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at the University of Maryland- Baltimore County. Key features of these “student-centered” programs are “relevant and timely academic advice, a community environment, strong mentoring, and early involvement in research,” as well as introduction to scientific culture.
Extended Summary“Successful diversity programs level the playing field for women and minorities by addressing their needs and teaching undergraduates the unwritten rules of academic science.” The author describes the successful features of three undergraduate programs for underrepresented groups in the sciences:1. The UC-Berkeley Biology Scholars Program helps minority students to succeed by providing a “student-centered approach” geared towards giving students “‘system smarts’- tools to navigate a campus’s academic system and scientific community.” The director of the program teaches a course called “Studying the Biological Sciences: an Introduction to the Culture of the University and the Culture of University Science.” The program intends to provide “relevant and timely academic advice, a community environment, strong mentoring, and early involvement in research.” The program staff are easily accessible to students because of their location. Participation in the program doubles the likelihood that a minority student will graduate with a science degree.2. The UMBC Meyerhoff Scholars Program is “one of the leading producers of African-American students who… earn medical degrees and science doctorates.” The program also includes some Caucasian students. Students receive individual attention and advising, and take courses which ensure that they have a foundational set of skills for academic success. Financial support allows students to focus on academics, rather than balancing their course work with a part-time job.3. The Yale Science, Technology and Research Scholars program requires students to participate in conceptual discussions of science topics. Students participate in internships and take courses in scientific reasoning, analysis and data presentation.The director gives students personal encouragement and matches them with appropriate mentors.All three programs receive strong institutional backing from their universities, which has been an essential ingredient of their success.
Recommendations“Level the playing field for women and minorities” by mentoring them, introducing them to scientific culture, creating supportive academic/social networks for them, and involving them in research. Personal support is essential for student success in these challenging fields. Ensure that students have basic foundational knowledge in math and science. Provide financial support to allow students to concentrate on their studies.