The "first-generation effect" on perceptions and academic performance of pharmacy students

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Higher Education Studies
• Student Success

Background:

• The "first-generation effect" traditionally links familial education to lower academic achievement.
• This study investigates if this effect impacts Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the academic performance and perceptions of first-generation versus non-first-generation PharmD students.
• To determine if first-generation status is a barrier in pharmacy education.

Main Methods:

• A survey assessed perceptions of academic and personal support.
• Academic performance was measured by course grades, GPA, and academic infractions.
• Statistical analyses (t-tests, F-tests) compared first-generation and non-first-generation cohorts.

Main Results:

• First-generation students reported lower perceptions of academic success and higher financial barriers.
• No significant differences in overall academic success measures were found between groups.
• First-generation students had lower grades in only two specific P1 courses.

Conclusions:

• First-generation status does not appear to hinder academic performance in PharmD programs.
• Financial perceptions and self-perception of academic success are significant barriers for first-generation pharmacy students.