Using responses collected from our shared measurement system, the SOAR Portal, Data Dive shares insights into the challenges faced by students with disabilities and offers resources to support them.
Building Community as a Catalyst for Success
February 2024
Building a supportive community is consistently reported as one of the most helpful interventions offered by our alliance.
Why is community important?
A community is a supportive social group in which members feel a sense of belonging and share a common interest, experience, or goals. Research shows that students with disabilities commonly tend to experience lower levels of belonging in higher education compared to their non-disabled peers. Therefore, building a supportive community can help these students feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive academically and socially.
How are we building community as an alliance?
Mentoring is the primary intervention of TAPDINTO-STEM and plays a vital role in establishing community and fostering a sense of belonging. By facilitating relationships, creating a supportive and inclusive environment, and sharing knowledge and resources, we can better support the personal, academic, and professional growth of students with disabilities.
Building social capital can increase relationships, enhance exposure to a wide range of experiences and opportunities, and build a sense of belonging.
What Students Are Saying
Through both good and challenging times, our students are finding support through community.
“Meeting with [another alliance university] virtually was a lot of fun, I wish I had more time to invest in community building but senior year is really demanding.”
“Things have been very difficult throughout this process [of personal loss]. I am grateful for the support of other students and mentors.”
“My advice is to make deeper connections that build lasting relationships.”
“Try to join at least one club or student organization on campus; often they’re great for socializing and making connections you wouldn’t make otherwise.”
Get Involved!
For virtual community building and networking, the alliance has established a student Discord server and public LinkedIn page.
Follow the TAPDINTO-STEM Alliance on LinkedIn!
Alliance students interested in joining the Discord, please contact your Campus Lead for an invitation code.
To get involved on your campus, reach out to your TAPDINTO-STEM faculty mentor or campus lead and learn how you can join, lead, or create community opportunities and organizations.
For alliance-hosted and national events, webinars and other initiatives that support the success of SWD in STEM, check out our Events page!
Supporting Resources
- Nine strategies and tactics for ensuring more students desire a mentor and expanding opportunities for connection in the article, Students Need Mentors, and More Help in Making Those Connections
- Research on Increasing STEM success: a near-peer mentoring program in the physical sciences
Go to the Resources Home Page
