Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Demographic Backgrounds And Career Goals Of First-Generation Medical Students, Brianna Kunes, Ricky Burns, Allison Casola, Phd, Mph

Phase 1

Purpose: Little research is available on the demographics and career goals of first-generation medical students. Undergraduate research suggests first-generation students are more likely to come from lower-income households, speak English as a second language, and experience higher drop-out rates. These diverse experiences could make first-generation medical students valuable members of the healthcare team. However, without more information, it is difficult for medical schools to identify and support them. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to define the following inquiry statements: What are the demographic backgrounds and intended career goals of first-generation medical students; How do they differ from non-first-generation …