Sense of Self-Efficacy and Connectedness in Female Business Students

• Antonia Vazquez, Finance, University of Delaware

• Laura Ahlstrom, CEEE, University of Delaware

This study investigates the interplay between self-efficacy, sense of belonging, gender, and academic major among undergraduate business students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics. Using survey data from 405 students enrolled in an introductory macroeconomics course, as well as qualitative interviews with students, the research explores how gender and filed of study influence students’ confidence perceived academic support, community integration, and outlook on future success. Results show that female students report higher levels of perceived support, sense of community, prospects for success after graduation, and importance placed on success, while male students report greater confidence in understanding course material. Business majors overall reported more optimistic academic and career outlooks than their non-business peers. Despite statistically significant findings, low R-squared values suggest additional factors influence students’ academic experiences. The study emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive, supportive education environments—particularly in male-dominated fields like business—to enhance female students’ academic engagement and persistence.