Project SHARKS, directing student support strategies to increase participation and retention of economically disadvantaged scholars in the Aquarium Science Program

Oregon Coast Community College, South Beach OR

Investigators

Abstract

This project fosters the entry of financially disadvantaged, but academically talented students into the aquatic animal care profession, and ancillary science and technology fields. Access is through the highly successful Aquarium Science Program. S-STEM funds support 19 two-year, financial need scholarships. The project is making a special effort to recruit traditionally under-represented students from urbanized areas and Title 1 schools to receive this strong scientific and technical training. Recruiting utilizes digital technology through granted access to post scholarship information on the websites of national organizations and their chapters, including the NAACP, SCANAS, and MESA. Student support strategies promote academic success and retention through individual academic advising, team building activities, and direct interaction with industry professionals.