Factors Related to Academic Success in First-Semester Osteopathic Medical Students

Authors

  • Emily Madrak The University of Virginia
  • Jennifer L Volberding Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences
  • Jana Baker Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences

Abstract

Background: Empirical evidence suggests that admission to medical school requires a strong undergraduate (UG) grade-point-average (GPA), UG science grade-point-average, and MCAT. However, factors such as self-efficacy and UG institution size have little investigation in their contributions to academic success in medical school. We hypothesized that self-efficacy and size of UG may lead to greater levels of academic success during the first semester of medical school

Methods: An online survey was used to gather information on first-semester medical student self-efficacy and size of institution (observed through athletic division level). Students' first-semester GPA and class rank were retrieved and used as outcome variables defining academic success.

Results: UG GPA demonstrated significance with first semester GPA and class rank, respectfully:  r=0.49, p<0.00; r= 0.55, p<0.00. UG science GPA demonstrated significance with first semester GPA and class rank, respectfully:  r=0.53, p<0.00; r= -0.59, p<0.00.

Non-Division I schools demonstrated greater first semester GPA and class rank than Division I schools, respectfully: U(NndI=22, NdI=20)=110.5,  z= -2.76, p<0.00; U(NndI=22, NdI=20)=102.00, z= -2.97, p<0.00.

Conclusions: Those with degrees from smaller schools may have greater success in higher education. Future research should do a deeper investigate of UG institution size in comparison to academic success. 

Key Words: academic success, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, medical school admissions, self-efficacy

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Published

2022-12-12

Issue

Section

Medical Education