Peer Mentors! Let’s See How We Can Help

Abstract

Evaluating why mentor-mentee relationships succeed or fail can be difficult, particularly in peer-to-peer mentorship environments. This study aimed to better understand the dynamics of peer mentoring within the First-Year Innovation & Research Experience (FIRE) and explore what characteristics make one mentor more successful than another. Guided by two models that describe mentoring relationships, the Process-Oriented Model of Mentorship (POMM) and the Mentoring Processes Scale (MPS), we sought to better understand factors that impacted peer mentoring relationships. FIRE Peer Research Mentors were invited to complete a brief survey and participate in semi-structured interviews about their experiences with mentorship. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis, with a particular focus on understanding mentoring processes outlined in POMM and MPS. Major themes will be outlined during our presentation. Additionally, we will present major trends in peer mentoring approaches based on commonly reported approaches to peer mentorship.