Eyes on the Future: Inspiring Latino Middle School Youth to Pursue Careers in STEM Through Early Interactive Science Programming.

BACKGROUND

Given the need for a diverse health care workforce, efforts must be made early in their education to support underrepresented minorities in medicine and the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

METHODS

The Eyes on the Future program introduces underrepresented minority 8th grade students to science and medicine via interactive science-based programming and mentorship by medical and graduate students. Program impact was evaluated using pre- and post-program surveys.

RESULTS

Of 25 participating students, 24 and 22 responded to pre- and post-program surveys, respectively. Students showed strong interest in science concepts and STEM careers, with high, positively correlated, and statistically similar pre- and post-program survey responses.

DISCUSSION

The Eyes on the Future program was well-received and represents a step towards addressing barriers to STEM careers faced by underrepresented minority students.