Among other conclusions, the written evaluation said survey results showed "students overwhelmingly perceive TFIM as instrumental in helping them learn about their interests and careers that match their interests." Indiana University of Pennsylvania Assistant Professor Melissa Swauger, Ph.D., who performed the evaluation, conducted the survey in April among the 300 students and faculty advisers attending TFIM's annual student leadership conference. The survey consisted of 25 multiple-choice and several open-ended questions.

In addition to finding that the vast majority of participants feel TFIM has helped them gain information to guide their career choices, the survey showed students found TFIM helped them to become more engaged with their schools or communities and to develop the leadership skills needed to plan and organize projects, work in teams and communicate effectively.

"Building awareness of career options and helping students prepare for the post-secondary education or training they'll need is our primary focus," said The Consortium's Associate Executive Director Steve Seliy, who oversees TFIM. "We're delighted to have a formal evaluation that resoundingly demonstrates we're meeting that objective and also helping our participants grow in other critical ways."

Among some of the specific findings: 88% of students said participating in TFIM helped them better understand the aptitudes and personal qualities needed for particular careers; 94% felt TFIM improved their ability to work in teams; 89% said TFIM helped them become more engaged in their schools or communities and 88% said TFIM helped them make a connection between their classroom learning and the world of work. Advisers' perceptions of benefits accruing to students were remarkably consistent with the students' responses. Click here to view the Executive Summary of Dr. Swauger’s evaluation.