May I Come In? Young Latinas/os' Self-Beliefs & Success in STEM Careers
In 2012, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology issued a dire warning to U.S. education: In order to maintain our global competitive advantage, we need to produce one million more STEM professionals in the next decade than are currently projected to graduate. Given unprecedented shifts in our nation’s demographics, the recruitment of Latina/o youngsters into the talent development pipeline in education and industry ought to become a priority. However, our current strategies must be expanded to include the impartation of psychological competencies alongside technological know-how if we are to make a significant impact on the underrepresentation of Latino Americans in the professions. In this presentation, Dr. Joel Núñez shares contemporary theory, research and his own personal story to make the case that a committed effort of goodwill by professionals of all backgrounds is necessary to encourage young people of Latin American ancestry that they too are welcome to enter and flourish at the highest levels of education, research, and industry.