Increasing Retention and Student Satisfaction Utilizing an Online Peer Mentoring Program: Preliminary Results

AbstractBackgroundAnxiety and apprehension have been observed in beginning nursing students as a recurrent pattern, particularly when students are entering upper level foundational nursing courses. This anxiety contributes to increased withdrawals from nursing programs and decreased satisfaction in retained nursing students.Purpose of StudyTo determine the effect of an e-mentoring program that pairs junior and senior level undergraduate nursing students on student satisfaction and student retention.MethodsThis mixed methods design utilizes an online peer mentoring strategy. 20 junior mentees and 20 senior level mentors participated in the study. Students completed surveys after one semester of participation, to evaluate the success of their mentor-mentee relationship, and gauge student satisfaction with the program. All information was utilized to assess retention implications, and implement changes with the e-mentoring program for future nursing students.Results and Conclusions14 mentors and 16 mentees returned surveys. The majority of students felt that they had benefitted from participation after one semester. Students indicated they preferred the online format to in- person meetings. Mentors were able to share studying tips, time-management skills and organizational strategies. Responses to open-ended questions indicated that the success of the mentor-mentee relationship depends on the mentee communicating with the mentor.Implications for PracticeWhile preliminary data suggests that promising results in student satisfaction, retention rates of students will be determined after one year of the mentorship program. An e-mentoring program could be a necessary component to foster relationships between excelling senior nursing students and junior nursing students, and allow for support in class load, coursework, school, and outside stressors. This relationship allows for collaboration of ideas, and provides perspective for the senior mentor in terms of growth and knowledge base