Qualitative Analysis of Intern Applications and its Relationship to Performance.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Internship Performance Analysis

Background:

• Identifying predictors of success in veterinary internships is crucial for selecting high-caliber professionals.
• Previous research has focused on quantitative metrics, leaving qualitative aspects of applications underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify qualitative aspects within small animal veterinary internship applications that correlate with intern performance.
• To differentiate characteristics of high-performing versus underperforming interns based on application data.

Main Methods:

• A thematic analysis was performed on application data from small animal veterinary interns across three intern classes (2015-2018) from four institutions.
• Interns were categorized into top-performing and bottom-performing groups based on overall performance scores.

Main Results:

• Top-performing interns frequently exhibited relationship skills and knowledge application, which were absent in bottom performers.
• Veterinary experience, presentations, community service, research, and teaching were more prevalent in top performers.
• While top performers excelled in technical skills and professionalism, bottom performers showed strengths in stress management and patient care, but lacked confidence and self-awareness.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative elements in veterinary internship applications serve as valuable predictors of intern success.
• Targeted mentoring in leadership for top performers and in technical skills, general knowledge, and self-awareness for bottom performers is recommended.
• Application review should incorporate assessment of qualities like adaptability and self-awareness to enhance intern selection and development.