Switching from STEM career goals in college: experiences of women of color with immigrant parents

Andrea C. Rydel
2022
This exploratory case study looked at the experiences of women of color with immigrant parents who transitioned from STEM to non-STEM career goals during college at a large, public research university in the Northeast region of the United States. This research examined the role of family, university supports, peers, and the factors involved in the process of terminating a STEM career goal, exploring a new career goal, and making decisions regarding a new career goal including accompanying
more » ... ic decisions. Twelve participants were interviewed, ranging from juniors to a recent alum. All participants experienced college as full-time, traditional-aged students ranging in age from 21 to 23 at the time of the interviews. One theory was used to understand the context of the university experience on the career switch experience and another theory specifically focused on career development and decision-making. Participants had varied experiences and interests; however, several themes emerged across interviews that suggest there are common unifying experiences across academic disciplines, career pathways, and identities. Based on the findings, recommendations for improving the experiences of students switching career goals during college are suggested, specifically in service of women of color with immigrant parents who switch from STEM to non-STEM career goals.
doi:10.7282/t3-xbrx-kg38 fatcat:clq6wadmgzbjjdgpfuj5pumoim