Psychological Empowerment, as measured by Spreitzer’s 12 item PE Questionnaire, is composed of four orientations (meaning, competence, self determination, and impact) that play a key role in mediating behavioral responses to a situation. Stress Resiliency, as measured by the Stress Resiliency Profile, reflects how individuals appraise their situation through the lens of three perceptions: (a) deficiency focusing where negative thinking dominates over positive aspects, (b) necessitating which focuses on perceived demands as being inflexible and obligatory, and (c) skill recognition where personal capabilities are associated with ability to manage tasks. Student success is measured by Grade Point Average, attrition, and semester absenteeism.

At the beginning of Fall 2006, data collection commenced utilizing a standardized interview schedule containing study measures. Through face to face interviews, each of the 40 investigative team members gathered baseline data for a caseload of 3 to 5 students to be followed by repeated data collection at the end of the Fall and Spring semesters.

Findings: Baseline data for Psychological Empowerment, Stress Resiliency, and measures of student success are completed.  An additional fall and a spring data collection period will complete the first year study year.

Conclusions and Implications: Psychological empowerment and stress resiliency have the potential to influence students’ perceived capabilities in responding to academic demands of nursing programs and ensuring success.