An Internship Approach to Strengthen the Pathway for Historically Underrepresented Groups in Health Sciences Research: The North Carolina Diversity and Inclusion Pathway Program.

ABSTRACT:

Background

To increase engagement of historically underrepresented groups in health sciences research, we created the North Carolina Diversity and Inclusion Pathway Program (NC-DIPP). This year-long, paid internship provides undergraduate and graduate students from 2 historically Black colleges and universities an opportunity to gain real-world experience under the mentorship of expert faculty.

Methods

To evaluate the early experiences with the NC-DIPP program, we conducted semi-structured interviews with interns and program leaders. Faculty mentors completed an online questionnaire to describe their experiences to date. A thematic approach was used to analyze the findings.

Results

In March-April 2023, 7 of 8 interns (88%), 6 of 11 mentors (54%), and 4 of 4 program le

SUBMITTER: Robinson SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11253698 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature