2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Ongoing research highlights a disparity in academic achievements and progression into graduate studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among historically underrepresented minorities (URMs). In response to this persistent trend, many studies have underscored the significance of research experiences and mentorship in facilitating the success of STEM students from underrepresented backgrounds. Notably, scholars have underscored the synergistic effect of combining study-abroad opportunities with research experiences, leading to reported improvements in self-perceived research skills, personal growth, and the development of valuable professional connections among underrepresented minorities.

The present study aims to provide program history, lessons learned, and future directions of a research abroad activity. Programs such as this are designed with the specific goal of enriching the undergraduate experience and bolstering the attainment of associate and bachelor's degrees, as well as facilitating progression into graduate studies in STEM fields for URMs. While the number of short-term research study abroad programs has been on the rise, there remains a dearth of research exploring students' perspectives and the resulting impact on student outcomes.

Since 2014, a cohort of 8-10 students per year were chosen to participate in the summer program. Following their selection, these students were coached into securing their laboratory placements abroad. Subsequently, they embarked on a comprehensive immersion into an eight-week summer research abroad program. At the end of the program, students had the opportunity to present their research findings at an annual University of Texas system regional conference and share their adventures while exploring their host institutions and countries. Also, the participants engaged in focus group discussions and completed a survey to provide feedback on their summer experience.

In general, the feedback from these activities indicated that participants were highly satisfied with their summer research experience abroad. Students said they would have benefited from more active support earlier in preparing for an international experience, including finding housing and researching important aspects of navigating their host country. Students reported they broadened their understanding of the opportunities available to them and gained more clarity regarding their career goals after college. These career pathways included graduate studies and several types of employment possibilities. Many students were able to network in their program and build meaningful connections that would support their future goals. Students reported overall satisfaction with their experience and felt that this experience broadened their understanding of the opportunities that are available to them. In the future, the program leadership will establish relationships with foreign universities to streamline and reduce student burden when acquiring housing and a laboratory.

To enhance the overall experience, the program leadership will continue to provide ongoing coaching and weekly seminars to thoroughly prepare students for their research endeavors in new environments. Furthermore, the program is exploring opportunities to establish strategic partnerships with universities and institutions. This initiative aims to facilitate group deployments of students to specific research locations, fostering collaboration and providing enhanced support for the transitioning students during their time in the program. However, students will still pursue their own research agendas.