Participants:   A convenience sample of 282 undergraduate students.

Methods:        A survey was constructed containing questions that focused on the meaning of mentoring and the characteristics of a mentor. Students responded to a survey link which was sent through their individual E-mail accounts. The Institutional Technology Department delivered the survey so students could return them anonymously. A total of 1,974 E-mails were sent, 492 responded to the demographic form, and 282 responded to the mentoring questions. Senior baccalaureate nursing students assisted in collecting and analyzing the data as part of their nursing research course. Students were divided into 7 groups of 5 and assigned responses to analyze. The course instructor, primary researcher, analyzed the data independently for comparison and maintenance of credibility.                     

Results:          Four categorical themes emerged to describe the meaning of mentoring. They are: 1) guidance through experience and wisdom, 2) the perceived desire to help at all levels, 3) leading by example as a role model, and 4) the nurturing transfer of professional experience and acquired expertise. Important characteristics of a mentor are: 1) patience and understanding, 2) effective communication, 3) personable behaviors, 4) being of moral character, 5) exhibits leadership qualities, and 6) possesses knowledge and experience.

Conclusion:     This project provided a hands-on approach for senior nursing students to participate in the data collection and analysis phase of a qualitative study. In addition, the findings have emphasized mentoring from the student’s perspective and are being reviewed by the university’s mentoring committee