Indigenous students entering a course in the health professions: a qualitative study of their aspirations and expectations

At the time of this research, four Indigenous students had entered the University of Adelaide Faculty of Health Sciences in that year to study Medicine (N=1), Dentistry (N=1) and Health Sciences (N=2). The aim of this study was to learn about the aspirations and expectations of the four students at the commencement of their first academic year, before classes began, and then to gain comparative data regarding the first year experience near the end of the first academic year. Gaining an insight into new student expectations in relation to becoming a student at the University of Adelaide, and what they considered had happened after almost a year of study may assist in refining and developing strategies within the Faculty to reduce both attrition of Indigenous students and to promote academic success. The lessons learned at the University of Adelaide and the recommendations made as a result may also be helpful for other institutions to consider.Chur-Hansen, Anna; Herbert, Paul; Caruso, Jenni and Barrett, Roberthttp://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=328176243793707;res=IELHE