An analysis of motivation factors for students' pursuit of leadership positions.
OBJECTIVE
To identify factors that influence student involvement and leadership within organizations and to assess the impact of involvement in organizations on professional skill development.


METHODS
A printed survey was administered to fourth-year pharmacy students at one college of pharmacy (N=202).


RESULTS
Most students (82%) indicated they were involved in at least one organization during pharmacy school and 58% reported holding a leadership position at some point. Factors with the largest impact on involvement in organizations were desire to present a well-rounded image to employers, ability to network, and interest in the activities sponsored by the organization. Involvement in professional organizations had a strong influence on their leadership, teamwork, confidence, and time-management skills.


CONCLUSIONS
That presenting a well-rounded image to employers and having the ability to network with mentors and peers drove student involvement in professional organizations may be reflective of increasing competition for residencies and jobs.
Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, Illinois ; Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, Park Ridge, Illinois.
Jennifer A
JA
Phillips
Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, Illinois ; Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois.
Milena M
MM
McLaughlin
Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, Illinois.
Jacob P
JP
Gettig
Purdue University College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, Indiana ; Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana ; United States Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland.
Jay R
JR
Fajiculay
NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, Illinois.
M Renee
MR
Advincula
D003479:Curriculum; D003625:Data Collection; D004512:Education, Pharmacy; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D007857:Leadership; D008611:Mentors / Q000523:psychology; D009042:Motivation; D013339:Students, Pharmacy / Q000523:psychology*
leadership; organizations; students