Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence
Diverse Nursing Student Application for Mentoring
Now Accepting Applications on a rolling basis
The Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence has developed a mentoring program for Colorado nursing students representing a racial and/or ethnic minority group. Student mentoring programs have a long history in educational programs, with the potential for significant beneficial impact. The purpose of the mentoring program is to help nursing students succeed in their nursing studies and in balancing the many challenges of education, family life and employment. The long term-goal is to increase diversity in the nursing workforce. This year-long program will accept mentee program participants that are enrolled in an undergraduate baccalaureate or RN-to-BSN program.
This program focuses on the professional development and educational success of diverse* mentors and diverse* mentees.This project is committed to increasing racial and ethnic nurses in our nursing workforce.
*Racial and Ethnic groups are defined by HRSA (the source of funding for this program) as: American Indians (including Alaska Natives, Eskimos, and Aleuts); Asian Americans; Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders; Blacks; and Hispanics.
What is a Mentor? A mentor helps their mentee clarify education and career goals and develop strategies to reach those goals by sharing insights and knowledge they have gained through their experiences. This skilled and knowledgeable expert is committed to a formal supportive relationship with a nursing student to assist and enhance their professional growth and academic achievements.
How much does it cost? There is no cost to the student for this program.
What do I have to do? Complete a Mentee application form. Commit to speaking with your assigned mentor at least once a month. Complete requested program evaluation forms. Agree to contact the Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence if you have any questions or concerns about continuing the program or to request a different mentor.
How much time does this require? The time spent with your mentor is determined by you and your mentor. The minimal requirement is once a month.
Who will be my mentor? Based on the answers you provide in the mentee application, you will be matched with one of the mentors in the program. Most of the mentors are diverse; all have a minimum of a BSN and come from a wide range of nursing specialties.
The basic structure of the mentoring program is a meeting (either in person or electronic means such as Skype or FaceTime) once a month for at least 30 minutes, scheduled at the mutual convenience of the mentor and mentee. The Center will provide backup support and coordination of the program. If the mentor-mentee relationship is not serving its designated purpose for either party then the mentee has the option to report back to the Center for advice, help and/or to make changes.