Bridging the Gap: Student Voices on Recruitment and Retention in Ecology

Students entering ecology and environmental science face a variety of challenges, including limited awareness of career paths, lack of mentorship, and difficulties connecting with peers and faculty. These challenges are often amplified for students from marginalized backgrounds, who may also encounter microaggressions, underrepresentation, and inequities in access to research and field experiences. Our collective testimonies highlight these barriers and emphasize the need for inclusive academic spaces where all students feel welcomed, respected, and supported in pursuing their interests and careers. Inclusion in this context means creating environments where students are valued for their perspectives and contributions, regardless of background or identity. Faculty, mentors, and administrators play a central role in fostering these inclusive spaces. Our stories show how meaningful mentorship, diverse representation in curricula, and supportive lab and field environments can shape students' confidence, growth, and sense of belonging. Institutions can further enhance inclusion by addressing systemic barriers, implementing equity‐focused workshops, and maintaining open communication channels so students can share concerns and receive guidance. By actively promoting these practices, faculty and administrators help students engage fully in hands‐on learning experiences and feel empowered to explore their careers in ecology and environmental science. Students also contribute to creating inclusive communities by seeking supportive spaces, advocating for their own safety and well‐being, and learning from the experiences of others. Through our collective stories, we demonstrate how mentorship, community, and recognition make a tangible difference in student success and persistence. When faculty, administrators, and students work together, they build a stronger and more equitable scientific community. Inclusive mentorship, representation, and support not only improve retention and confidence but also enrich ecology and environmental science by incorporating diverse perspectives that advance research and societal impact.