Forensic medicine students in Jiangsu Province are experiencing enhanced academic outcomes, thanks to a robust sense of professional identity. A recent study highlights how this strong professional self-concept significantly contributes to their engagement in learning and overall academic performance.
Key Factors Influencing Professional Identity
The research surveyed 159 undergraduate forensic medicine students, revealing that senior year status, leadership roles, and deliberate specialty selection substantially shape their professional identity. Additionally, prior and current knowledge about the forensic field plays a critical role. These elements collectively foster a deeper connection and commitment to their chosen discipline.
Impact on Academic Performance
Findings indicate a positive correlation between professional identity and both learning engagement and academic achievement. Notably, learning engagement acts as a mediator, accounting for nearly half of the impact that professional identity has on students’ academic success. This underscores the importance of not only fostering a strong professional identity but also ensuring that it translates into active and meaningful participation in educational activities.
Inferences:
- Senior students and those with leadership experience demonstrate higher professional identity.
- Students who consciously choose their specialty show greater commitment and academic performance.
- Prior knowledge about forensic medicine enhances students’ engagement and success.
The study underscores the critical role of professional identity in shaping the educational trajectory of forensic medicine students. By understanding the factors that influence this identity, educators can develop targeted strategies to support students’ academic journeys.
Educators in forensic medicine should prioritize activities that strengthen professional identity, such as leadership opportunities and comprehensive orientation programs. By doing so, institutions can not only improve academic outcomes but also cultivate a dedicated and proficient workforce ready to meet the demands of the field.

This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.