The Benefits and Challenges of a Blended Peer Mentoring Program: Peer Mentors' STEM Beliefs, Interests, Skills, and Behavior

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: Mentoring Approaches in Preparing Our Youth and Young Adults for the Future

Abstract

The current multi-site case study undertaken and that will be presented was aimed at exploring how and in what ways peer mentors’ participation in a blended peer mentoring program influenced their beliefs, interests, skills, and behaviors. Evidence from the semi-structured interviews focus groups, and survey demonstrated that the peer mentoring experience had a direct impact on the mentor’s self-efficacy, career interest, leadership and professional skills, and intent to persist. Specific peer mentoring program experience salient to these outcomes included, 1) recognition, 2) functioning as a mentor, 3) developing an other’s orientation, 4) engaging in a sisterhood, and 5) developing competencies, which will all be discussed in depth during the presentation. Challenges experienced will also be discussed.

Authors

• Amanda J Rockinson-Szapkiw, University of Memphis

• Jillian L Wendt, University of the District of Columbia

• Kathryn M. Sharpe, The University of Memphis