Empowering Women in STEM: A Research-Based Retention Analysis of a One-Week Study Orientation Program

The underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) remains an urgent social and economic challenge. To counteract this inequality, the ProMINT project, an interdisciplinary, practice-oriented study orientation program developed specifically for female secondary pupils, aims to raise interest in STEM subjects, strengthen self-efficacy and break down gender stereotypes. This study evaluates the program's effectiveness using a qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted approximately six months after participation. Using an impact model [1], the analysis examines the effects at the output, outcome and impact levels. The results show consistently high satisfaction with the organisation, workshop structure, and interaction with female role models, indicating strong success at the output level. At the outcome level, participants reported increased interest in STEM topics, increased self-efficacy due to practical experience, greater awareness of study and career opportunities, and a noticeable reduction in gender stereotypes. At the impact level, half of the participants expressed a concrete intention to pursue a STEM degree, while others reported an increased commitment to existing STEM goals. This shows, that the ProMINT project is an effective tool for supporting girls in their study and career orientation.