Challenges of recruiting american minority graduate students

Abstract

Objectives. To examine the Coach Model for recruiting minority students for the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy. The long-term goal is to establish the University of Georgia and the College of Pharmacy as a regional center for training minority scientists to solve problems concerning minority health disparities.

Methods. Professional fairs, workshops, seminars, and campus visits were used to attract the most qualified students. Also vital to the recruitment effort is direct family contact, the location of supportive mentors, and funding.

Results. The 9-year project resulted in the matriculation of 22 students to graduate programs in the College of Pharmacy. Eight have graduated and 13 are scheduled to graduate within 5 years. Only one student transferred to another institution. Funds are provided by a variety of sources, including the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, and The University of Georgia Graduate School. All students are fully funded.

Conclusions. The project has already shown that a strong graduate program for minority students in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences can be executed and succeed. The project also demonstrates that faculty involvement as well as a positive instructional environment plays pivotal roles in the program's success.