In 2015, Mancini et. al. validated and published the Professional Identity Status Questionnaire (PISQ-5D). This survey measures five social constructs to measure how an individual identifies themselves within their chosen field of profession. While this survey was originally focused on undergraduate and master's program students within the profession of psychology, in recent years the survey has been modified and adopted for use in other professions such as nursing, social work, and STEM. Open-ended questions were added to the end of the survey to gather more data on how students view themselves as a professional in their field. The responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Undergraduate students in a variety of chemistry courses were given this modified version of the PISQ-5D to further understand how students relate to being a professional in their field at various points in their undergraduate careers. From the qualitative analysis of the student responses, it was demonstrated that while many were excited and prepared for the future, upper and lowerclassmen both felt anxious about the future and uncertain of their standings as a professional in their fields. The importance of this research will help identify key components that help students connect to their profession and hopefully be used to increase retention in STEM.

Exploring potential factors that can impact students' professional identity in STEM

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.