Framework for Mentoring East Asian Women Scientists and Engineers

Abstract

ABSTRACT. The goal of this preliminary study was to develop a framework for success in mentoring East Asian women scientists and engineers. Six women participated in two-hour interviews providing oral histories that revealed some common themes. In Asia, while science and engineering studies are encouraged, especially for girls, the interviewees had little mentoring. Upon coming to the United States they found themselves isolated in their universities as both East Asian and female minorities. The study findings suggest collective mentoring through a department-formed team of senior mentors with public administrative support is a good model for East Asian women. In this approach, assigned mentors would include at least one woman. Mentors would have an understanding of and be able to discuss work/life balance and would work with protégées to help them with goal setting. This research complements findings of other studies describing mentoring teams working with minority faculty and the importance of women mentors in addressing psychosocial issues. This research uncovered the limited role of East Asian faculty mentors and the need for role models. Date of publication: December 2016OHIO J SCI 116(2):28-33

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