Table 1 Summary of relevant codes and corresponding themes

Research/lab experience

Students discuss working in a lab or conducting research (job responsibilities, independent work, experiences presenting or publishing their research).

Relationships with faculty/staff

Students discuss relationships and interactions with UNC faculty and staff (mentoring, what mentoring means, role models, support received from faculty/staff).

Part-time jobs/internships

Students discuss employment and internships: paid/unpaid, summer/academic year, reasons for working (e.g., career development, money), time spent at work/internship, influence on academic and/or CSS experiences.

Relationships with program staff

Students discuss interactions with CSS staff, who it is, what their interactions include, such as in advising roles.

Professional development

Student discusses opportunities that CSS provides them for furthering their career (providing resources to travel, mentorship, paying for test fees).

Post-graduation motivations and support

Students discuss their motivations to pursue something post-graduation, instrumental/emotional support they receive toward that goal, and overall preparedness for post-grad life/career.

Diversity

Students discuss diversity in STEM, mentorship, CSS, and at UNC more broadly.

Scientific identity

Students discuss why they identify/do not identify/are hesitant about identifying as scientists.

Formative experiences

Students discuss the personal experiences that shape their identity/absence of their identity as scientists.

Perceived qualifications

Students discuss their perceptions and understandings of what it means to be a scientist, including educational requirements, research experience, and professional engagement.