Kopp ponders the NYT's assertion that science is just too hard, highlighting programs we have to make that hard work more fun and rewarding.
Dear students,
Recently, New York Times proclaimed in an interesting article that students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) drop out because its just too difficult. Some research suggests that students can be lured by the idea of earning "easier" grades in other majors. Sure, STEM subjects might be challenging, but that's what makes them fun and interesting.
The College of Natural Sciences has created many programs to support you as you work through these subjects. Programs like the Freshman Research Initiative, the FIG's, the Emerging Scholars and Biology Scholars Programs, the Undergraduate Research Forum, the Texas Interdisciplinary Plan, the Peer Leadership Academy for undergraduate TAs and mentors, the Career Design Center, and others are all focused on creating opportunities for students to get involved and get started on your career.
This is important, because the research presented in the New York Times article suggests that independent inquiry and learning by doing lead to the greatest success in graduating with a STEM degree. So the good news is that the College of Natural Sciences was already doing many of the things suggested by these authors.
We have proof that our programs work, with students in the various programs graduating at rates 30-150% higher than students overall. It is no surprise, then, that graduation rates have doubled in CNS over the last decade and some of the largest increase in enrollment is at the upper division level due to our efforts at increasing retention of STEM majors.
So while the national media ponder what in the world can be done to improve STEM education, I hope you will join the 2/3 of entering students in FIGs or FRI, the thousands of CNS students doing research in a lab, or the hundreds of undergraduates serving as TAs and mentors. College is a great deal more than 8 semesters times 5 classes. Bottom line: GETTING INVOLVED will help you succeed!
Best regards, for a good week,
Dr. Sacha Kopp
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