Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2025

A Cross-Disciplinary and Multi-Modal Experimental Design for Studying Near-Real-Time Authentic Examination Experiences
Published on: September 4, 2019
Assessing student reflections of significant professional identity experiences
Jennifer Arnoldi1, Monica Kempland1, Kate Newman1
1Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy, 200 University Park Dr, Campus Box 2000, Edwardsville, IL 62026-2000, United States.
Introduction:
Professional identity formation (PIF) is an essential component of pharmacy education. A student-focused holistic approach can be introduced through exposure to a variety of curricular and co-curricular activities. It is essential for students to not only participate in these activities but also to reflect on their actions and thoughts about those activities. The objective of this study was to better understand the experiences students identify as significant in their PIF.
Methods:
A mixed methods approach with qualitative thematic analysis was conducted for first-year (P1) and second-year (P2) student pharmacist end-of-year reflections to understand the types and impact of various experiences on PIF. Students identified which experience was most impactful; additional analysis based on this identification was conducted.
Results:
A review of 151 student reflections led to coding and analysis of 453 experiences. Co-curricular experiences were identified most frequently in both P1 and P2 groups (59.8% and 56.4%, respectively). Curricular experiences were more likely to be mentioned by P1 students than P2 students (28.8% vs. 9.8%, P < .001). P2 students were more likely to identify experiential rotations (17.9% vs. 6.4%, P < .001) or work (13.7% vs. 9.1, P < .001). Other experiences were cited less frequently but were ranked as most impactful by students. Students often identified experiences that allowed them to apply skills and knowledge and opportunities to attend seminars and lectures.
Conclusions:
When reflecting on experiences and their impact on PIF, student pharmacists discussed a variety of experiences but identified co-curricular opportunities most frequently as impactful.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Self-Concept
Infancy and Emerging Recognition
During infancy, self-concept is virtually nonexistent. Babies do not distinguish themselves as separate entities and often mistake their...
Marcia's Theory of Identity Status

