Science experiences outside of formal schooling support science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) trajectories by stimulating student interest in science. When compared to 73 students in the program’s age-matched comparison group, the 83 scholars who participated in the Knight Scholars Program showed significantly higher research self-efficacy, science identity, motivation for science, STEM interest. Together, the statewide training approach offers a compelling model for enhancing the recruitment and retention of historically underrepresented students in cancer research across broad geographical distances.
