WISE Fellowship - Final Report

Female enrollment and retention in STEM fields has lagged behind male enrollment and retention, nationwide. This study aimed to highlight helpful opportunities for current students and champion new approaches to improve the participation and the success of female STEM majors. It examined the impact of a variety of factors on our CSUN female population as determined by female graduates from STEM programs. The goal of the study was to use the feedback from alumnae to improve the retention and graduation rates of female students in STEM. The study collected information from CSUN STEM alumnae using an online survey, regarding their degree program experience while at CSUN. The survey asked alumnae about their participation in student clubs, internships, and research while at CSUN and the impact on their professional success. Survey questions addressed courses, mentors, extracurricular activities, and family or financial constraints. Information about the degree(s) earned and current employment status was solicited. The survey also asked for areas of improvement; and for courses, programs, faculty, and experiences that were beneficial to the alumnae's success. Analysis of and visualization of alumni geographic location and geographic location of employment was carried out to consider if geography is a disproportionately limiting factor for women versus men.