Dr. Stacy Ochoa

Biography

Stacy Ochoa is an Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of California, San Diego, with a research focus on teaching and mentoring practices aimed at enhancing the experiences and success of undergraduates in science majors, particularly among underrepresented students. Her research emphasizes the evaluation of the effectiveness of student-centered active learning pedagogies and interventions that enhance students' self-identity and self-efficacy, which are pivotal for increasing student persistence in STEM fields. Ochoa recognizes the significant impact of students' feelings and perceptions of belonging on retention rates, driving her to investigate inclusive strategies and activities that positively influence these areas. Ochoa is also involved in the STEM Pathways program, which aims to support students transitioning from community colleges to four-year universities, with a particular focus on Latinx students. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. from Northwestern University and postdoctoral research at UCSD, where she contributed to developmental biology research and fostered an interest in science education. She is passionate about promoting educational opportunities for underrepresented minorities in low socioeconomic communities.

Research Interests