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June 10, 2026BMC Medical EducationOpen Access

Thriving, not surviving: a qualitative study on barriers and strengths of first-generation medical students

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Authors

MBMarco BoonstraHAHassan H.H. AlsadahNBNetty Bos-Veneman

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Overview

Qualitative study explores barriers and strengths of first-generation medical students, suggesting support strategies for improved experiences.

Key Points

  • This study aims to explore the experiences, barriers, and strengths of first-generation medical students in their identity formation and academic journey.
  • Conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 first-generation medical students
  • Recruited participants through purposive and snowball sampling
  • Performed reflexive thematic analysis on the interview data.
  • Five themes emerged: Study start, The medical community, Social life, Connection with home, Support strategies.
  • Students faced challenges transitioning to university, feeling a mismatch with the medical community's norms.
  • They highlighted strengths like persistence and mentioned strategies such as mentorship and peer support to enhance their experiences.

Cite This Study

Boonstra et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a2900ff6f82f25be989d692https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-026-09620-x
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