Improving physics transfer student outcomes with inclusive research

Working as a valuable member of a group, contributing meaningfully to the progress of science, and engaging in interesting and current problems contribute significantly to our ability to stay the course in an inherently challenging career in physics. Physics students transferring to four-year universities from community colleges are diverse and talented, but are much more likely to leave the physics major due to varying levels of preparation and the challenges of joining a student body where study groups and other social networking may have already been established. One of the major goals of the Network for Neutrinos, Nuclear Astrophysics, and Symmetries (N3AS) is to provide the community, training, and mentorship in order to foster an environment where transfer students and four-year students can thrive together doing meaningful research. Our system involves dual mentors for paid research and for personal development, directed research training, social activities, and a venue for presenting research findings. The nascent program has proven successful for its first graduating cohort, but continues to undergo changes as it grows to provide a world-class research experience for students throughout the network.