Date of Award
8-2019
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Educational Leadership - Higher Education
Committee Member
Tony W Cawthon, Committee Chair
Committee Member
Michelle L Boettcher
Committee Member
Frederick C Buskey
Committee Member
Cynthia M Deaton
Committee Member
Pamela A Havice
Abstract
Using a conceptual framework concerning core competencies for entering medical students, the researcher examined how the core competencies were displayed in the medical school applications for students who completed a healthcare pipeline program. The researcher completed a descriptive qualitative study and examined medical school application materials that were submitted by applicants and external individuals. The researcher used framework analysis to understand how the competencies were displayed within the admissions materials. The researcher examined personal statements, letters of recommendation, secondary applications, individual interview comments, and multiple mini interview comments.
After completing framework analysis, the results indicated a strong presence of core competencies within the letters of recommendation and personal statement data materials. Core competencies observed included critical thinking, oral communication, resilience and adaptability, reliability and dependability, social skills, cultural competence, and capacity for improvement. Key themes emerged from the presence of the core competencies: academic performance and excellence, connecting through communication skills, fostering relationships through service and leadership, and personal experiences in medicine. Of the three themes, connecting through communication skills contained the most core competencies and served as a connector between the other three themes.
The examination of application materials submitted by applicants and external individuals provided greater insight into the core competencies exhibited in the medical school admissions process. This research study established a baseline for future research studies. More in-depth study is needed to determine whether the presence of core competencies may affect admissions decisions or success in medical school.
Recommended Citation
Riyad, Cindy Nessim Youssef, "Preparing for Medical School Admissions Through Professional Competency Education in a Healthcare Pipeline Program" (2019). All Dissertations. 2447.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_dissertations/2447