Peer Mentorship for College Access: Benefits to College Student Mentors and Areas for Programmatic Improvement

• In Event: 60.084 - Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: 60.084-12 - Structuring Success: Institutional Initiatives and Strategies to Promote Student Progress and Learning

Abstract

This qualitative case study examined a mentoring program at a university in Texas with particular focus on the learning experiences of current and former college student mentors in the program. Mentors work in area high schools primarily assisting historically underserved students as they navigate the pathways of college admissions. Drawing on 15 interviews with mentors, informal conversations with program staff, and curricular documents used in the training of mentors, this study revealed the overall positive impact the program had on the leadership and development experiences of the mentors. Additionally, challenges were identified, which were often attributed to the programs’ limited funding and full-time staff support. Implications for practice and future research will be shared.

Authors

• Melissa Ann Martinez, Texas State University

• Paige Haber-Curran, Texas State University

• Daphne Trueblood Everman, Texas State University