Medical student interest in academic medical careers: a multi-institutional study

• DOI: 10.1007/s40037-013-0051-6
• Publication Date: 2013-04-15T13:51:39Z
• Authors: Ruth B. Greenberg; Craig H. Ziegler; Nicole J. Borges; Carol L. Elam; Terry D. Stratton; Sheila Woods
• Keywords: Academic Medicine

Little is known about how medical students view academic medicine. This multi-institutional study explored student perceptions of this career path. During 2009-2010, third- and fourth-year at three United States schools completed a 30-item online survey. In total, 239 the questionnaire (37 % response rate). Significant predictors students' desires for careers included interest in teaching (γ = 0.74), research 0.53), interprofessional practice 0.34), administration 0.27), community service opportunities 0.16). A positive correlation existed between accumulated debt medicine 0.20). Student descriptions least most appealing aspects were classified into five categories: professional, research, personal, mentoring, patients/patient care. Students are more likely to be interested if they have participated or influenced by mentor. Factors that may also influence student's decision pursue include age prior school. Professional (cutting edge environment, resources) opportunity teach aspects.