(564e) Broadening Participation: Building Pathways to Success for Transfer Students in Chemical Engineering

This presentation highlights the critical role that transfer students from community colleges can play in broadening the participation of underrepresented minorities in science and engineering fields, particularly in chemical engineering. Despite representing nearly half of all U.S. undergraduates, transfer students face unique obstacles and lower transfer rates, disproportionately affecting African American and Latinx students. Therefore, policies and support systems must be established to improve retention rates for transfer students and close the transfer gap.

Student support and advising are crucial for academic success and the overall college experience. Adequate support and advising can assist students in navigating the academic and personal challenges that arise during their time in college, leading to higher retention rates and improved academic performance. This support becomes even more critical for transfer students as they adjust to the new campus culture, understand transfer credit policies, and identify available resources. With appropriate support and guidance, transfer students may find it easier to navigate the complex process of transferring to a four-year institution.

The chemical engineering education community can help support transfer students by providing academic and financial assistance, mentorship, tutoring opportunities, creating transfer pathways, and fostering a sense of community among students. By providing transfer students with the necessary tools and resources to make informed decisions about their career goals, advising can help them prepare for successful post-graduation outcomes. In turn, this support can help transfer students complete their degrees and contribute to developing a globally competitive science and engineering workforce.

In conclusion, this presentation aims to provide a snapshot of the transfer process of community college students to four-year institutions as a vital pathway to broaden the participation of underrepresented minorities in science and engineering fields, particularly in chemical engineering. It intends to spark new discussions and dialogue in the chemical engineering education community about adequate support and advising to overcome their unique challenges and achieve academic and career success.