Scientific Poster Session II - Original Research

Abstract

Research Question or Hypothesis: To assess students’ academic resilience upon return to in-person classes post-pandemic campus closures.

Study Design: This is a quantitative survey research study.

Methods: The reliable and validated Academic Pharmacy Resilience Scale (APRS-16) was sent electronically to all first professional year Doctor of Pharmacy students (n = 217) who had completed most of their coursework during the pandemic through remote learning modalities. Participation was voluntary with study information provided and informed consent obtained/implied upon survey completion. Students who completed all components of the APRS-16 received campus dining credit for their time. The University Institutional Review Board granted this study “exempt” status.

Results: A total of 158 students (73%) completed the APRS-16 survey. Findings revealed that upon facing a challenging academic situation, the majority of students felt likely or somewhat likely to: (1) begin doubting their chances to succeed academically; (2) be disappointed and probably get depressed; (3) think that everything was ruined or going wrong; (4) be concerned about their chances of getting the job or residency they wanted; (5) try to think of new solutions; (6) use past successes to help motivate themselves; (7) set goals for achievement; (8) seek encouragement from family and friends; (9) try to think about their strengths and weaknesses to help them; and (10) see the situation as temporary.

Conclusion: Findings support the continued availability, and potential expansion, of current academic and mental health services for students. Consequences of isolated learning environments remain an issue, and universities should aim to identify and address these challenges to ensure student support and success.

Presenting Author

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