Open AccessA Qualitative Analysis of Students' Perceptions of Pursuing Pharmacy as a Potential Vocation
Author(s) -
Michael W. Firmin,
Véronique Bouchard,
Jordan Flexman,
Douglas Anderson
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the qualitative report
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2160-3715
DOI - 10.46743/2160-3715/2014.1007
Subject(s) - pharmacy , qualitative research , salary , psychology , medical education , focus group , perception , prestige , health care , nursing , medicine , sociology , political science , social science , linguistics , philosophy , neuroscience , anthropology , law
We present the findings from a phenomenological, qualitative research study that explored the personal constructs of an inaugural class, entering a newly-established direct-entry, preferred admission, pre-pharmacy program at a private, selective, Midwestern university with an enrollment of 3000. The focus of the study was to appraise students' perceptions regarding their rationale for pursuing a future career in pharmacy. The sample consisted of 36 students (26 females, 10 males). Data was collected via in-depth interviews of each student who had enrolled in the first year of the program. Overall, students demonstrated their belief that they would be a good fit for the pharmacy field and looked forward to enjoying their future profession. Participants also expressed having a penchant for science and healthcare, and having previously interacted with pharmacists and the pharmacy field prior to entering college. Benefits such as salary, job security, and prestige were of secondary importance to students, but they played a role nonetheless, and encouragement from parents and other respected individuals also was significant.