Table 3 Results of thematic analysis including codes and representative quotes
Categories | Codes | Representative Quote |
|---|---|---|
Incoming Concerns | Lack of hands on experience | “I am a hands-on learner, so I am not sure how well I will understand new material if it is all just listening to others virtually.” |
Difficulty connecting with mentor | “My concern is not being able to connect with my mentor as well this summer because she will be busy and we won’t see each other every day like the in-person program” | |
Experience with vSREC Mentors | Created supportive environment | “My mentor was always available for questions via email or if, necessary, Zoom… Dr. --- was also very supportive by taking the time out of her schedule to meet with me 1:1 to discuss my progress.” |
Career advisors | “She supported me beyond the summer program. She helped guide me for future research in college.” | |
Providing feedback | “During the Zoom call he always gave constructive feedback and told us how proud he was of us.” | |
Enjoyable aspects of vSREC | Guest speakers | “The most enjoyable aspects for me was listening to guest speakers and learning the range of paths in the field of science and research” |
Learning digital skills | “I learned how to use Zoom efficiently which will be important for the coming school year. I liked the professional tips we learned, like having a virtual background and having a profile picture or staying muted in meetings but being on camera.” | |
Improving the vSREC Experience | Match peers in labs | “Working with my mentor was nice but I would have liked being able to connect with another student in my lab. The others were just older than me and not really doing the same kind of summer experience.” |
Reducing screen time | “It was difficulty having back-to-back meetings and sitting in the chair all day.” | |
Increased interactions and networking | “I suggest having more opportunities for the interns to network with one another.” |