African American Nursing Students' Perceptions About Mentoring

Aim. This pilot study described African American nursing students' perceptions of mentoring. Background. The number of African American nurses in the United States is far less than desired. Part of the problem is due to attrition of this student group within nursing education programs. Mentoring has been identified as a factor that contributes to academic success, yet questions about the specific characteristics of successful mentoring programs remain. Method. A qualitative approach was used to investigate students' views about the role of a mentoring program at their respective schools of nursing. Twenty-six students participated in one semi-structured, face-to-face interview. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method to inductively review, code, and categorize data within themes. Results. Themes that emerged included role models, tricks of the trade, feelings, and someone who looks like me. Conclusion. Results resonate with previous research and lend support for mentoring among minority nursing students.