The STEM Pathway and Student Retention

This work introduces methods that aid in freshman retention (in the transition from high school and to remain in the university of origin) and orient them towards a successful career in science. Specific examples of successful approaches are given as well as detailed plans for how to engage these students. Pitfalls as well as success are described. In addition this work provides a detailed description of how to develop the students into a cohort that exhibits comradery. Three types of cohort form, those within the freshman class, those among the upperclassmen and those between the freshmen and upperclassmen. The program works because the social reality is that the peer mentor has a better repertoire with the first semester freshmen than the faculty or staff and assists with student success. Factors such as financial aid, policy, and support systems influence student success. In the sciences, students often struggle with the content and adjusting to the college experience. Research states that a mentorship program supports retention as well as enhances the student experience during college. This program creates a cohort group among the upperclassmen mentors and freshmen and provides leadership development for all involved.

Inhalt
Abstract
Chapter 1. Issues in Higher Education and STEMChapter 2. The Transition from High School to CollegeChapter 3. The Role of Identity Development in the Acculturation to CollegeChapter 4. The Orientation of First-year Students to Success: Recognizing the Need for ChangeChapter 5. The Orientation of First-year Students to Science and STEM MajorsChapter 6. Early Support for First Semester Freshmen: Peer MentoringChapter 7. Recruiting the Mentors and the Selection ProcessChapter 8. Foundations for Guiding the MentorsChapter 9. The Transformation Process from a Freshman into a SophomoreChapter 10. Lesson StrategiesChapter 11. Implementing the Plan: The Weekly Schedule
References
AppendicesA. Icebreaker WebsitesB. Planning the SessionC. Facebook Page with PrivacyD. Learning Management Platform WebsitesE. Presentation of Leadership StylesF. Risks and Rewards of MentoringG. SMART GoalsH. Time-management ResourcesI. Tips for Facilitating an Effective DiscussionJ. Letter to a Young ScientistK. Dwell Time on LeadershipL. Log SheetM. Leadership StylesN. Multiple IntelligencesO. Study SkillsP. Issues in EducationQ. Rejuvenation