From Roots to STEM: a Hands-on Approach to Cultivating Diversity-View Presentation

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Video Summary

The session, "From Roots to STEM: A Hands-On Approach to Teaching Diversity," hosted by Ludmila De Faria and colleagues at the University of Florida, explores integrating diversity with residency training, research, and undergraduate support in STEM careers. The program primarily serves minoritized and underrepresented undergraduate students, aiming to enhance their participation in scientific careers through hands-on research programs funded by NIH grants. The program provides stipends to students working in university labs, intending to foster critical mentorship connections and practical research experience.<br /><br />A significant aspect of the program focuses on addressing the mental health challenges faced by these students, who often experience minority stress impacting their academic performance and retention. Data from surveys like the Healthy Minds Study revealed that these students faced higher anxiety, depression, and academic impairment than national averages. In response, a wellness initiative involving process groups was implemented to enhance mental health resilience and reduce stigma, showing promising improvements in participants' mental health.<br /><br />The presentation emphasized the importance of advocacy, research training, and cultural competence within the program. The residents facilitating the process groups reported enhanced skills in group facilitation, empathy, and cultural humility while also focusing on empowering students to advocate for themselves in academic settings. The initiative serves as a model for integrating mental health support and diversity training into STEM education, highlighting the critical role of mentorship and advocacy in diversifying and strengthening the scientific workforce. The session stressed the importance of reframing mental health perceptions, addressing institutional stigmas, and ensuring research inclusivity to promote a more equitable academic environment.

Keywords

STEM diversity

residency training

underrepresented students

hands-on research

NIH grants

minority stress

mental health resilience

cultural competence

mentorship connections

academic advocacy

process groups

equitable education