Changes in STEM Majors' Motivation and Post-Graduation Goals Over Senior Year

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Mentor: Dr. Debra Major
Psychology

Description/Abstract/Artist Statement

Undergraduate STEM students persist in their majors for a variety of reasons, which can change over time. Moreover, STEM majors’ post-graduation plans can also change. In two interviews at the beginning and end of their senior year, STEM students recounted reasons they persisted in their majors and their post-graduation career/educational plans. Most students interviewed maintained at least one of three top reasons given for remaining in STEM over their final year. On the other hand, there were significant changes in students’ post-graduation plans over their senior year, including elaborating on initial post-graduation plans and pursuit of employment/graduate school acceptance.

Presentation Type

Event

Location

Learning Commons @ Perry Library, Northwest Atrium

Start Date

2-18-2017 8:00 AM

End Date

2-18-2017 12:30 PM

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Feb 18th, 8:00 AM Feb 18th, 12:30 PM

Changes in STEM Majors' Motivation and Post-Graduation Goals Over Senior Year

Learning Commons @ Perry Library, Northwest Atrium

Undergraduate STEM students persist in their majors for a variety of reasons, which can change over time. Moreover, STEM majors’ post-graduation plans can also change. In two interviews at the beginning and end of their senior year, STEM students recounted reasons they persisted in their majors and their post-graduation career/educational plans. Most students interviewed maintained at least one of three top reasons given for remaining in STEM over their final year. On the other hand, there were significant changes in students’ post-graduation plans over their senior year, including elaborating on initial post-graduation plans and pursuit of employment/graduate school acceptance.