Inspiration and Information: Two Pillars of M.D.–Ph.D. Matriculation

• In Event: 49.043 - Selection, Matriculation, and Success for Students in Educational Programs for the Professions

Abstract

This study examines the pre-matriculation influences of MDPHD students in order to identify influential experiences and motivations. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with a diverse sample of 69 U.S.-based MDPHD students. Using qualitative content analysis, we developed a coding frame based on deductive main categories and inductive subcategories to identify the diversity of themes on this topic. Of all coded text segments, 41% were related to experiences and exposure in the laboratory, 23% were located in the academic environment, and 27% dealt with the respondents’ motivations. The findings expand our knowledge of why students pursue MDPDH programs, and offer insight into how laboratory and academic experiences can be leveraged to sustain the interest and motivations of talented and engaged individuals.

Authors

• Daniel M Read, University of Virginia

• Theresa Noelle Melton, National 4-H Council

• Donna B. Jeffe, Washington University in St. Louis

• Dorothy Andriole, Washington University in St. Louis

• Heather D. Wathington, University of Virginia

• Robert H. Tai, University of Virginia