Abstract:

Summer research programs offer undergraduate students critical exposure to the world of research and science. However popular, less is emotionally known about the role of such programs in preparing students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, for graduate education. Supportive research experiences are essential for building the next generation of scientists. This study examines the multi-faceted interventions and outcomes of a summer research program intentionally designed to support underrepresented students’ graduate education efficacy. Findings from this qualitative study illustrate how a summer research program at a research-intensive university enhanced graduate school efficacy through intrapersonal motivation, research experience, and foundational support structures.

About Jeff:

I am an assistant professor of Higher Education at George Mason University located in Northern Virginia. I earned my Ph.D. in Higher Education from the Center for the Study of Higher Education and Postsecondary Education at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where I concentrated in Organizational Behavior and Management with a cognate in Public Policy. I’m committed to reimagining how organizational structures, policies, and practices in organizations can create justice-oriented, equitable experiences and outcomes for all faculty, staff, and students.

My research and teaching are shaped by my experiences as a student and administrator. As a first-generation student from the rural town of Sharpsburg, Maryland of less than 1,000 residents and no stop sign, I was a bit of a “swirler” student. I transferred numerous times and even stopped out to do the Walt Disney World College Program internship before earning my reverse-transfer Associate of Arts in General Studies from Hagerstown Community College, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Maryland College Park, and Master of Arts in Student Affairs Administration from Michigan State University. In addition, I earned Graduate Certificates in Nonprofit Management from Washington University in St. Louis and Executive Coaching from Southern Methodist University.