Abstract 1961 Catalyzing Success: Impacts of STEM Bridge Program on Student Diversity, Engagement, and Confidence at La Sierra University

Third-year results of a study on La Sierra University's STEM Bridge program reveal its comprehensive impact on diversity enhancement, campus engagement, and student success. First-year and transfer students arrive two weeks before the fall quarter to move into dorms, engage in group research, meet with campus faculty and staff, complete educational and social enrichment, and become familiar with the campus at no added charge to regular college fees. This program is a powerful intervention to boost student success and campus engagement and bridge diversity gaps. We present findings from a 2023 STEM Bridge cohort. It offers insights into their transformative journey from day 1 to day 13 through anonymous pre and post-surveys. The data explores demographics and the program's academic, social, and well-being impact. Research has expanded in the last three years to include ethnicity, first-generation college status, and transfer standing, alongside assessments of participants' awareness of campus resources, research confidence, mental health resource knowledge, group work competence, and overall self-efficacy. The 2023 cohort witnessed increased participation by underrepresented groups, with over 33% being Black or African American, a notable shift from the first cohort with no such students. The program started with eight students and has grown to include dozens of students per cohort. Returning second-year and older transfer students serve as Learning Assistants (LAs), contributing to a cyclical mentorship process that fosters a nurturing classroom environment where experienced students support their peers, creating a cooperative learning atmosphere. The program has also evolved from a hybrid to an entirely in-person residential experience, allowing students to immerse themselves academically, socially, and emotionally in campus life. STEM Bridge enhanced campus engagement and resource access by allowing all students to gain exclusive access to campus facilities. Awareness of resources surged from 31% to 94%, and poster presentations boosted research confidence from 27% to 89%. Knowledge of mental health resources also rose from 40% to 90%. Social impacts were significant. At the start, 63% of students knew no one, but 94% had made meaningful friends by the program's end. College attendance confidence was therefore boosted by 66% and group work confidence by 39%. Self-assurance also rose from 46% to 84%, showing the program's positive influence. In conclusion, La Sierra University's STEM Bridge program effectively bridges diversity gaps, enhances campus engagement, boosts confidence, and equips students with essential skills. These findings underscore the program's role in promoting student success and fostering an inclusive campus community. Funding came from the Department of Education Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions (DHSI) program grant P031S190114 and P031S210063.