Research is an important part of the undergraduate experience. Students engaging in enriching research experiences get help exploring their intended majors, developing relationships with faculty in their field, and cultivating critical thinking skills. The Research Rookies program has been an effective model for STEM student retention and matches freshman and sophomore undergraduate students with research advisers who serve as mentors for these students during a yearlong research project. Since the program was sponsored in 2013, there have been 37 students participate in the Research Rookies program, of those 37, 18 have graduated from college, 19 are current students. Of the 18 students who have graduated, 66% are in a STEM-related field, 11% are employed in STEM industries, 16% are STEM teachers in local schools, and 38% are continuing their education in STEM (attending graduate or professional school). 83% of students who have participated in the program reported that the Research Rookies program increased their likelihood to stay in a STEM field. One student stated, "The program solidified my plans about being in a STEM field. After going through and working in the lab it made me realize that its something that I could possibly do for a career, " they continued on to add "It made me face challenges that I had to really think about different ways to get through them. And also the atmosphere was amazing, instead of just having acquaintances its more of a family; which made the overall experience even better than expected." This program is significant because it has shown to be effective in not only recruiting students to WVSU but also retaining them and encouraging them to pursue STEM careers.

Engaging and retaining undergraduate STEM majors: Research Rookies program model

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.