College Women's Leadership Aspirations: The Influence of the First-year College Experience

Abstract

The proposed study would determine the effects of the first year of college on female students' leadership aspirations. According to research describing the task- and interpersonal-oriented leadership styles, gender congruence in leadership styles, and evidence of a null academic environment and chilly classroom climate, it would not be surprising if college women experienced a decline in their leadership aspirations and reported more traditional attitudes toward women after their first year of college. Women in male-dominated academic areas may report even lower leadership aspirations than women with other majors. Results supporting the hypotheses would imply that college campus dynamics should be altered to eliminate the disadvantages imposed on female students through socialization and prevalent notions of successful leadership.