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MAGIS

Abstract

This paper examines the mentoring experiences of women of color in student affairs and how that impacts their pipeline through the profession. The participants in this study are all alumnae of the same master’s program and work in various functional areas. The particular focus of this study is on women who are newer in their careers and can provide a more recent look at their experience entering the professional pipeline and how they are using mentoring to navigate a multitude of issues. The literature provides insight into professional development within the field, what this looks like for women of color who are seeking to access a mentor, particularly a senior administrator, and the probability that that person shares the mentee’s salient identities. There are different implications around what type of mentoring women of color are seeking, as well as the impact of cross-gender and cross-cultural mentoring, and the compromises that must be made on the part of women of color. The findings provide great insight on access to a mentor, organic and reciprocal connection, development of confidence in abilities, and negotiating identities and ambition.

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