(267) Advancing Student Success: Developing Professional Identity Formation Throughout a 4-year PharmD Program

Objective : Professional identity formation (PIF) describes the inculcation of the standards, behaviors, and values of pharmacists and the pharmacy profession to students. The AACP Student Affairs Standing Committee published in 2020 recommendations that schools of pharmacy to incorporate pharmacy identity formation while in 2021 it described methods to achieve professional identity. At University of Houston College of Pharmacy, student affairs and co-curricular programming aid in the development of professional identity.

Methods: We collaborate with pharmacists, influencers, and pharmacy leaders to have students learn about current and changing practice. As students enter the professional program, Student Affairs invites state pharmacy leaders and pharmacists to welcome them to the profession and continues these efforts such as hosting internship interviews and promoting cultural events. Elements of PIF were delivered during the first two years in the didactic and skills courses. The co-curriculum further supports students’ development with programming and through connecting activities from courses and student organizations. During the final year, Experiential programs coordinate a professional development series.

Results: Student Affairs highlights cultural celebrations to broaden knowledge of diverse patient populations while representing our students. Past celebrations include International Day, Black History Month, Lunar New Year, and Ramadan. Student reflection is gathered at the end of co-curriculuar activities. Data is gathered from a variety of sources and utilized to modify and improve individual PIF activities for subsequent years.

Conclusions: The efforts within Student Affairs and Co-curriculum supports professional identity formation in concert with other areas in the curriculum. Our programming continues to evolves based on insight received from feedback and reflection on our events.