Supporting transfer students in the geosciences from two‐year colleges to university programs

Abstract

Providing pathways that support geoscience transfer students from two-year colleges (2YC) to fouryear colleges and universities (4YCU) addresses enrollment challenges, diversity, equity, and inclusion issues, and helps build the 21st-century geoscience workforce. Building bridges between 2YC-4YCU programs can happen in various ways, all of which support students, strengthen geoscience programs, and help 2YC geoscience faculty feel less isolated. We present three regional examples of how 2YC geoscience programs have developed bridges with 4YCU partners. While these examples are geoscience-specific, they are broadly applicable to all STEM fields looking to engage and support transfer students.

Diversity by design: Broadening participation through inclusive teaching

“…2022 and Chapter 7 by DiLeonardo et al. 2022 in this volume). Local or regional business : These businesses may offer internships, assist with spreading knowledge of DEI, and may lead to job opportunities for students. Local or regional non‐profits : These organizations may offer funding opportunities, service‐learning project opportunities, or a means to spread knowledge. Professional organizations : Discipline‐specific professional organizations may have resources for students and faculty (see Maier et al., 2021). …”

Power and potential: Engaging adjunct faculty as leaders and agents of change

“…During the pandemic, these efforts have moved to Zoom and continue to draw many 2YC students (see Chapter 7 by DiLeonardo et al. (2022) in this issue).…”

“…These transfer events have been well received and have continued past the project. During the pandemic, these efforts have moved to Zoom and continue to draw many 2YC students (see Chapter 7 by DiLeonardo et al (2022) in this issue).…”