Influence of Pharmacy School Experiences on Students’ Perceptions,

1. Influence of Pharmacy School Experiences on Students’ Perceptions, Attitudes, Goals, and Expectations Towards the Profession Gary M. Levin, Pharm.D., BCPP, FCCP1, Kristin W. Weitzel, Pharm.D.2 1Nova Southeastern University College of Pharmacy, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 2 University of Florida College of Pharmacy,Gainesville, Florida BACKGROUND RESULTS Response Rate: 127 students completed the initial survey in 1999 (100%). In 2003, 83 of 109 remaining students participated (76%). Pharmacy leaders have identified student professionalism as an important issue facing the profession. This study evaluates the effect of pharmacy school on many attributes that influence students’ professional behavior. A significant change in students’ perceptions, attitudes, goals, and expectations towards the profession during this time supports a role for faculty in instilling professional values in students during pharmacy school • The majority of students upon entering (89%) and completing (94%) pharmacy school hoped that society will come to expect more from pharmacists. • The majority of students chose to work part-time in retail pharmacies during school; Significantly fewer students did part-time work in hospital than expected to prior to entering school (24% vs. 8%). • On a scale of 1-10 (10 = most difficult), students expectations/opinions of pharmacy school coursework remained unchanged after pharmacy school (8.05 – pre, 8.21 – post). Opinion of Pharm.D. as Sole Entry-Level Degree Goal Upon Completion of School Applied to Pharmacy School Because Percentage of Respondents Percentage of Respondents Percentage of Respondents * P < 0.05 * P < 0.05 * P < 0.05 OBJECTIVE Ideal Number of Years for Pre-Pharmacy Education Internship While in School Overall Opinion of the Profession To determine if the experience of pharmacy school influences students’ perceptions, attitudes, goals and expectations toward the profession. CONCLUSIONS Percentage of Respondents Percentage of Respondents Percentage of Respondents Students goals after finishing school and perceptions of the profession and their career options changed after completing pharmacy school. Further research in this area may elicit influencing factors and help target potential areas faculty may provide guidance to students to assist them in developing and achieving their career goals and hopes for the profession. * P < 0.05 * P < 0.05 METHODS A survey assessing students’ perceptions, attitudes, and expectations of pharmacy school was administered to entering students in 1999 and re-administered prior to graduation (2003).