SCRIPT emerged from a desire to leverage the special talents and resources of both Duke and North Carolina Central University to enhance STEM undergraduate training. In addition to interviews with NCCU faculty to learn about the academic landscape, students provided survey feedback about their top career and professional development interests. The SCRIPT program was then designed to address increased exposure to scientific careers and increased mentorship opportunities.
In 2021, the program offered 4 virtual sessions that included topics such as professional development, mentoring, career panels, and networking opportunities. Participating students represented a broad range of majors from either the College of Health Sciences or College of Arts or Social Sciences and Humanities at NCCU. Plans are underway to expand student enrollment to additional HBCUs.
Feedback from Inaugural Event
Several participating students offered very positive personal reflections on the program.
- “I think that everyone who spoke really had gotten into my head and heart and really helped me realize things about myself.”
- “Conversations about time management and higher education what was relevant for all disciplines.”
- “The presenters and panelists were great, definitely motivating and open about their experience.”
To evaluate the effectiveness of the program, student participants completed an online survey. When asked if they would recommend events like this to others, 75% said they strongly agree, and 21% said they agree. When asked to rate the effectiveness of the career panels, 83% said they were very effective and 17% said they were effective. When asked to rate the effectiveness of the professional development workshops, 75% said they were very effective and 21% said they were effective.