Sociology ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-1-2024

Abstract

In this project, I examine the emotional and lived experiences of women of color (WOC) graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and how they embody and negotiate racism, classism, and sexism in academia, particularly in White, men-dominated STEM spaces. I utilize critical race theory and intersectionality to shed light on how WOC draw upon their intersecting identities, marginalization, and sense of community to navigate and resist oppressive environments. Specifically, I highlight the ways they experience racialized emotions and leverage vulnerability to resist dominant academic norms and controlling images to preserve their holistic selves, engage in critical reflexivity to challenge harmful mentoring practices, and activate ethics of the embodied self and care through their work, relationship building, and visions of themselves as scientists. This study extends our current understanding of the experiences of WOC in higher education by providing nuance to their experiences in STEM.

Degree Name

Sociology

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Sociology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Nancy López

Second Committee Member

Dr. Roberto Ibarra

Third Committee Member

Dr. Ranita Ray

Fourth Committee Member

Dr. Mia Angélica Sosa-Provencio

Keywords

women of color graduate students, STEM higher education, racialized emotions, mentoring, minoritized students in STEM

Document Type

Dissertation

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