Knowing, Doing, and Becoming: Professional Identity Construction among Public Affairs Doctoral Students

Abstract

Public administration scholars have long examined how doctoral students in public affairs are trained to become researchers. Our study adds to this body of knowledge by examining socialization and professional identity construction processes among doctoral students conducting public affairs research. We develop a multilevel model of the organizational, relational, and individual level tactics through which they learn to become researchers. In particular, our study offers insight into the interactions between students and faculty that contribute to their development, as well as into students’ own proactivity. Our study uses interview data from doctoral students in multiple disciplines who are conducting research in public affairs. We conclude with a discussion of our model and recommendations for doctoral programs.

Keywords:

• doctoral students
• professional identity
• socialization
• mentoring

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Amy E. Smith

Amy E. Smith is an assistant professor in the McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She received her PhD in Public Administration and Policy from the University at Albany, State University of New York. Her current research interests in public management include women in leadership in public organizations, social relations in government, and teaching and mentoring in graduate education in public affairs. Dr. Smith is also a member of the editorial board at the journal, Public Performance & Management Review.

Deneen M. Hatmaker

Deneen M. Hatmaker is an associate professor in the Department of Public Policy at the University of Connecticut. She holds a PhD in Public Administration and Policy from the University at Albany, State University of New York. Her research interests include social networks, gender dynamics in work and organizations, identity construction, and relational leadership. Dr. Hatmaker is also a member of the Board of Editors at the Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory.