Yii-nii Lin*
The purpose of this study was to describe the comradeship among female STEM graduate students in Taiwan. Twelve participants, aged 22 to 32, from three universities, were interviewed using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Themes emerged from the data analysis include: (1) small numbers fostering close relationships and mutual support, (2) mutual support to overcome challenges, (3) collaborative learning to facilitate development, (4) mutual sharing and emotional connections to enhance life satisfaction, (5) relaxed gender norms facilitating comfortable interactions, (6) female peers serving as role models, and (7) unique shared experiences offering valuable insights. This study underscores the transformative impact of female relationships in STEM fields. Despite their underrepresentation, women in these programs foster a supportive climate through cooperative efforts and connections, enhancing belonging, engagement, and academic persistence. Friendships among female STEM students serve as critical support systems, promoting emotional intimacy, psychological well-being, and collaborative learning. These findings provide essential implications for students, educators, counselors, student affairs professionals, and policymakers in supporting the comradeship of women in STEM graduate programs.
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