This article describes the experiences of 3 gifted women who had recently graduated from college and were beginning to shape their professional identities. Through a qualitative case study approach, this study examined the factors influencing the sample's professional achievements. Major findings include each of the participants attributing a significant part of her identity to her status as a high achiever. This identity was influenced primarily by 3 factors: foundational influences, personality characteristics, and marriage as a partnership. The foundational influences were instrumental in shaping and directing the high-achieving component of the participants' identities. Specific attributes of their personalities provided the to women with the tools necessary to transform their drive to achieve into actual accomplishments. Finally, defining their marriages as partnerships allowed each of them to view her identity in relation to another person and create a partnership that would empower both partners to achieve their goals. Implications of the findings are presented with Suggestions for parents and educators that may help foster achievement in young gifted women.
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