Understanding the Role of Mentoring High School Students and STEM Identity Among Underrepresented Undergraduate Students

• In Event: Interrogating the Social Contexts of Higher Education

Abstract

This session explores how Imagine Your STEM Future (IYSF) undergraduate mentors from underrepresented backgrounds facilitating AquaSTEM, a culturally relevant water-science curriculum among predominantly Latinx/Hispanic high school girls impacts their own STEM identity, leadership skills, and career decision making. Using Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), the study highlights both theoretical alignments and limitations particularly SCCT’s lack of emphasis on systemic and identity-based barriers. Findings suggest that mentoring can serve as a reciprocal learning experience, shaping not only mentees but also the mentors themselves. The session will present qualitative findings, discuss theoretical implications, and invite reflection on how to adapt career development frameworks and mentoring practices to better support students with intersecting underrepresented identities in STEM.

Authors

• Sabina Iturralde, University of Arizona

• Yamini Sumalatha Bhukya, University of Arizona

• Qianqian Wang, University of Arizona

• Jessica J. Summers, University of Arizona