Table 3 Descriptions, examples, and frequencies for each of the coded themes
From: “Dear future woman of STEM”: letters of advice from women in STEM
Theme | Example descriptions from codebook | Example from letters | Frequency | Percent (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Everyone struggles | These classes are hard for everyone Everyone gets stressed All of my friends had trouble in this class | “Everyone struggles with certain things and you aren't alone in that.” | 36 | 40.4 |
Failure not indicative of character | Failing doesn’t make you a failure One bad grade doesn’t define you | “There's nothing wrong with you if you fail a class” | 11 | 12.4 |
Academic advice | Tips about studying; time management Talking to TAs/professors; office hours Doing practice problems Don’t be afraid to change majors | “…study as you go, and don't cram!” | 45 | 50.6 |
Form community | Forming study groups, joining clubs Finding “your people” Connecting with others | “…join clubs and organizations so that you can form supportive groups.” | 62 | 69.7 |
Women role models and mentors | Impact of women professors Seeking out women mentors Seeing women as role models | “I look at my female professors and am inspired” | 15 | 16.9 |
Family support | Talking to family members Encouragement from family Advice from family | “My mom once told me that when life feels messy its [sic] like a house being built, it's jus [sic] on its way to a more beautiful home.” | 23 | 25.8 |
Empowerment and perseverance | Overcoming adversity; staying motivated Inspirational advice (stick with it, you’ve got this) Overcoming difficulties in particular courses Passion for the field Congratulating them; cheerleading | “Don't give up, find what motivates you, find what makes you happy, relieve stress and keep moving forward. The journey won't be easy but girl, you got this.” | 76 | 85.4 |