What Do Hispanic Students Want in a Mentor? A Model of Protégé Cultural Orientation,Mentorship Expectations,and Performance

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to propose and test a model of the effects of cultural factors on Hispanic protégés’ expectations for and experiences with their mentors. Specifically, the proposed model posits that cultural orientation predicts the mentorship functions protégés desire, and the positive impact of these mentorship functions depends on whether the protégé desired them. Cultural orientation also moderates the effectiveness of mentorship behaviors. In this study of 191 Hispanic undergraduates, protégé power distance orientation predicted desiring the mentor to act as a role model and moderated the effects of the mentor acting as a role model. Collectivism predicted wanting psychosocial support from mentors and collectivists also benefited more from psychosocial support. This study provides initial evidence on the importance of cultural factors and Hispanic protégé expectations in mentoring relationships.