An Overview and Analysis of First2 Network Campus Clubs.

Abstract

Underrepresented groups often face various, tedious obstacles when pursuing postsecondary education; many times, students find it difficult to impossible to overcome these obstacles and either avoid or drop out of college. The First2 Network is a statewide network of innovative stakeholders collaborating to solve and share STEM persistence issues. At the core of network’s shared vision is the assumption that students should be co-creators of the solutions. Funded by the National Science Foundation’s INCLUDES initiative, First2 hopes to double the retention rate of first-generation, underrepresented, and/or rural STEM students in higher education through many enriching and diverse opportunities, events, and initiatives. One of the most student-led and effective methods of outreach and support is the utilization of campus clubs across the state. Participants in this presentation will hear an overview about each First2 campus club and highlights of the work they are doing, how this work can affect systems change, and the benefits for those who participate.

Ashlea Krasnansky, Dept of Mathematics, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755; Erica Harvey, Dept of Natural Sciences, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26554; and Beth Thompson, Dept of Natural Sciences, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26554. An Overview and Analysis of First2 Network Campus Clubs.