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June 1, 2026Journal of Career Development

Impacts of a STEM-Focused Summer Camp on Postsecondary Aspirations for Rural Appalachian High School Students

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Authors

HAHaley R. AultGeorgia State UniversityKCKatherine D. CookEmory and Henry CollegeMGMelinda M. GibbonsCounseling Center

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Implication

Randomized trial shows increased self-efficacy and STEM interest in rural high school students, suggesting positive educational impact.

Key Points

  • The study aims to evaluate the effects of a STEM-focused summer camp on the educational aspirations of rural Appalachian high school students.
  • Participants included rural Appalachian high school students attending a STEM summer camp.
  • The camp featured hands-on learning, mentorship, and career exploration activities.
  • Improvements in self-efficacy, science identity, and STEM career interest were measured compared to a matched sample of non-participants.
  • Participants showed an immediate increase in self-efficacy and science identity after the camp.
  • Over time, students' STEM career interest positively increased compared to non-participants.
  • Findings underscore the long-term benefits of STEM programming for career development.

Cite This Study

Ault et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a1d224302fbce9130637fddhttps://doi.org/10.1177/08948453261453002
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Also Consider

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