Erica Hinojosa

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Erica Hinojosa’s research illuminates the pathways and experiences of underrepresented groups in STEM, with a particular focus on Hispanic females and informal learning environments. Her most-cited work, ““Nothing is impossible”: characteristics of Hispanic females participating in an informal STEM setting” (2019), has garnered 25 citations and stands as a foundational contribution to understanding how cultural identity, self-efficacy, and community support intersect to foster STEM engagement. Hinojosa’s scholarship challenges deficit-based narratives by highlighting the resilience and agency of Hispanic girls, demonstrating that informal settings—such as after-school programs and community workshops—can serve as powerful catalysts for STEM interest and persistence. Her work is notable for its qualitative depth, centering the voices of participants to reveal how family encouragement and hands-on experiences shape their aspirations. By bridging educational psychology, equity studies, and STEM education, Hinojosa provides actionable insights for educators and policymakers seeking to design inclusive programs. Her research not only advances academic discourse but also offers a roadmap for empowering historically marginalized students to see themselves as capable and belonging in STEM fields.