The influence of role models, self-efficacy, carreer exploration, mentorship, educational aspirations, and academic enrichment on career aspirations of youth of youth in a precollege enrichmant program

• Main Author: Scott, Jacqueline A
• Format: Others
• Published: DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center 2010
• Subjects: Education
• Online Access: http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/154; http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1706&context=dissertations

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship of roles models, self efficacy, career exploration, mentorship, educational aspirations and academic enrichment on the career aspirations of middle school students in a precollege enrichment program at a medical school. Through precollege outreach programs, multiple strategies have been utilized in attempts to increase minority student interest and academic preparation for health profession training at the postsecondary and graduate levels. A mixed method design consisting of both quantitative and qualitative elements was utilized in data collection. A survey, interview process, and document analysis provided the data on factors influential in career aspirations of middle school students in a precollege enrichment program. Stepwise Regression statistical analysis revealed that educational aspiration was found to predict career aspirations. The findings provide evidence that educational aspiration is key in the career development process. One observation may be that educational aspirations are related to strong self-efficacy, high self esteem and high educational aspirations which translate into attainment of career and self satisfaction.