Impact of the cancer education program on career paths of students

A questionnaire sent to former University of North Carolina students who participated in the Cancer Education Program, a National Cancer Institute sponsored program designed to provide integrated educational opportunities in oncology for students in the health science schools, ascertained the career paths taken by students and elicited opinions regarding the impact of the program on those decisions. One hundred five surveys were returned. The opportunity to be involved in cancer research was the most common reason given for participation in the program (65 respondents). The opportunity to work with a specific faculty member (48) and improving academic credentials (44) were also important. Twenty-three individuals changed their career goals after participation in this program, 20 decided to pursue cancer-related careers, and 3 decided to avoid this field. One hundred three individuals were currently in health professions, 58 in academic, and 45 in community-based practice. Twenty-seven were not involved with cancer, while 56 spent up to 25% of their professional time, 8 spent 25%-50%, and 9 spent over 50% of their professional time in cancer-related activities.