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Article
A Graduate Student Mentoring Program to Develop Interest in Research
American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education
  • Mary E. Kiersma, Purdue University
  • Nicholas E. Hagemeier, East Tennessee State University
  • Aleda M.H. Chen, Cedarville University
  • Brittany Melton, Purdue University
  • Marwa Noureldin, Purdue University
  • Kimberly S. Plake, Purdue University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-10-2012
Description

Objective. To assess the impact of a graduate student mentoring program on student interest in research and postgraduate education and on graduate student confidence in mentoring.

Methods. Undergraduate and pharmacy students (mentees) and graduate students (mentors) were matched and participated in the study, which required them to engage in at least 2 discussions regarding research and careers. Mentees completed a pre- and post-assessment of their perceptions of research, postgraduate training plans, and perceptions about mentors. Mentors completed a pre- and post-assessment of their perceptions about themselves as mentors and their confidence in mentoring.

Results. Although there were no significant differences among the mentees’ perceptions of research or the mentors’ confidence in mentoring, qualitative analysis indicated that the mentees’ perceptions of research improved and that the mentors believed their mentoring skills improved.

Conclusions. Based on the results of the qualitative analysis, implementing a graduate student mentoring program may help improve students’ perceptions of research and graduate students’ confidence in mentoring, which could increase student interest in postgraduate education and prepare mentors for future leadership roles.

Disciplines
Copyright Statement

© Copyright American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education. This document was originally published in American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education.

Citation Information
Mary E. Kiersma, Nicholas E. Hagemeier, Aleda M.H. Chen, Brittany Melton, et al.. "A Graduate Student Mentoring Program to Develop Interest in Research" American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education Vol. 76 Iss. 6 (2012) ISSN: 0002-9459
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/nick-hagemeier/2/