College - Author 1
Orfalea College of Business
Department - Author 1
Management
Advisor
Bridget Benson, College of Engineering, Engineering Department; Zoë Wood, College of Engineering, Engineering Department
Funding Source
Cal Poly's Engineering Possibilities in College (EPIC) Program
Date
10-2025
Abstract/Summary
The purpose of this study was to look at how a student’s location can shape their interest in engineering after taking part in the EPIC program. My research question asked: How do students’ geographical area influences their level of interest in engineering after participating in EPIC? To answer this, I compared students from different income groups: higher, middle, and lower, which was determined by using ZIP code data tied to average income and education levels. I also did a closer look at students from the Santa Maria region. Many of these students were connected to the Migrant Education Program, which serves first-generation and low-income students who may not have the same access to resources as their peers in EPIC. The EPIC program reserves seats for these students so they can gain hands-on STEM experiences and see engineering as a possible path for their future. By comparing pre- and post-survey responses, the study aimed to show not just overall changes in interest, but also how each students’ regions can shape the way they engage with their interest in engineering opportunities. My goal was to highlight how a student’s environment can influence their exposure to engineering and whether programs like EPIC can help close that gap.
October 1, 2025.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/ceng_surp/141