Presentation: 2025 ND EPSCoR Annual conference 

October 21, 2025, NDSU Memorial Union, Fargo, North Dakota

Bridging Barriers in STEM: Early Outcomes from the AIM NSF S-STEM Initiative

Community college students pursuing STEM degrees often face systemic barriers—financial hardship, limited academic preparation, and unfamiliar institutional processes—that contribute to the persistent underrepresentation of low-income and minority groups. To address these challenges, Bismarck State College launched the AIM (Accomplish, Innovate, Motivate) Scholar project in Fall 2022, funded by the NSF S-STEM program. AIM provides scholarships and integrated support services to academically talented students with financial need. This study evaluates AIM’s impact over its first two years using a mixed-methods approach that combines institutional data with student surveys and focus group interviews. Quantitative analysis shows that AIM Scholars outperform Pell Grant recipients in GPA, retention, and graduation rates. Qualitative findings emphasize the importance of mentorship, academic advising, peer networks, and career guidance in fostering belonging and academic confidence. Key success factors include personalized mentoring, early intervention, structured academic and career pathways, and increased awareness of campus resources. The integration of financial aid with holistic support services creates a synergistic effect that enhances persistence and career readiness. These findings highlight the value of equity-driven, comprehensive strategies to expand access and success in STEM fields for underrepresented students at community colleges.