<p> Improving the STEM readiness of students from historically underserved groups is a moral and economic imperative requiring greater attention and effort than has been shown to date. The current literature suggests a high school science sequence beginning with physics and centered on developing conceptual understanding, using inquiry labs and modeling to allow students to explore new ideas, and addressing and correcting student misconceptions can increase student interest in and preparation for STEM careers. </p><p> The purpose of this study was to determine if the science college readiness of historically underserved students can be improved by implementing an inquiry-based high school science sequence comprised of coursework in physics, chemistry, and biology for every student. The study used a retrospective cohort observational design to address the primary research question: are there differences between historically underserved students completing a Physics First science sequence and their peers completing a traditional science sequence in 1) science college-readiness test scores, 2) rates of science college-and career-readiness, and 3) interest in STEM? Small positive effects were found for all three outcomes for historically underserved students in the Physics First sequence.</p><p>

<p> According to former President Obama&rsquo;s Council on Advisors of Science and Technology (PCAST) analysis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduation rates, the study concluded that United States will require an increase in STEM graduation rates by 40% to keep up with future job demands. The PCAST findings and National Center for Educational Statistics indicated that Black females are underrepresented in attaining advanced STEM degrees. To achieve increased advanced STEM degree rates, it is necessary to increase graduation rates for underrepresented Black to meet the growing demand for jobs requiring advanced STEM degrees. This narrative inquiry study explores the experiences of seven Black females who attained their advanced STEM degree, as they recalled the people and events that positively influenced their successful completion. </p><p> Utilizing Swail, Redd, and Perna&rsquo;s Geometric Model of Student Persistence and Achievement as the study theoretical framework, the study findings revealed the cognitive, social, and institutional factors that influenced advanced STEM degree attainment for the study participants. Additionally, the study revealed the influences outside of the Geometric Model that impacted their degree success. This study delved into the participants&rsquo; kindergarten through graduate school experiences to provide recommendations to improve advanced STEM degree completion rates for Black females. The study concludes with implications for future study so that researchers can add to the dearth of literature that exists on this topic and contribute to closing the gap on underrepresented resources needed for current high technology job demands.</p><p>