How might we be unwelcoming to those traditionally underrepresented in the STEM field?  How much diversity do you see here?

We don’t have to look far to see grassroots organizations that are working to improve the approachability of STEM fields.  Bowdoin Student Scientists are students conducting scientific research that see a gap in communication of research and a growing distrust of the scientific community.  In order to combat this they are publishing a website to provide “Science in Informal Language by Students at Bowdoin College – Brunswick, Maine.”

The McKeen Center for the Common Good is a great resource for us at Bowdoin.  Underrepresented students have noted that a lack of application or connection outside of the classroom is important.  The McKeen Center’s goal to “encourage and support publicly engaged teaching, research and artistic work” can certainly engage students in the sciences.

The Student Center for Multicultural Life is also available to us as a resource.  If their goal is to “create a home away from home for students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented at Bowdoin (specifically first generation students, students of racial and ethnic minorities, and low income students),” why not team up to be sure we making a home for such students in the sciences?

One place we already offer programming for underrepresented students is the Bowdoin Science Experience for incoming first years “interested in science and mathematics—especially those students from groups underrepresented in the sciences—including students of color, women, and first-generation college students. The major goal of this orientation program is to provide students with an effective start to their science or math careers.”

Outside of Bowdoin, the Institute for Broadening Participation provides a resource highlighting “positive factors that support success in STEM pathways and reduce barriers to participation.”  Check it out.  Authentic science engagement and active learning are already tactics that we use at Bowdoin, but I find it never hurts to review resources.

Kenyon College offers the KEEP Program “aimed at underrepresented students of color and first-generation college students.”  They provide peer mentoring programs, diversity resources, and an alumni of color mentoring initiative.  Perhaps creating a STEM Diversity Council at Bowdoin would assist underrepresented students in STEM.  Kenyon’s Diversity Council is composed of faculty members, administrators, and students.