The Research Behind WiSH
More than simply a desire to help, the WiSH effort was founded on formal research proving the transformative impact of mentorship.
Evidence Based. Mission Driven.
Why Mentorship?
Research across education, public health, mentoring, and STEM consistently demonstrates that mentorship is one of the most effective tools for helping students overcome barriers to educational and career success.
The evidence is clear: Mentorship makes a difference.
WiSH exists to turn that evidence into action by expanding access to the guidance, relationships, and opportunities that help young women overcome barriers and pursue careers in science and health with confidence.
What the research shows
Academic Engagement
Mentorship can strengthen academic engagement, performance, and scholastic efficacy. (1, 3, 4)
Mental & Emotional Well-Being
Mentorship can provide connection, encouragement, and social support that help students feel supported and connected. (1, 2, 7)
College Attendance & Progress
Students with mentors can be more likely to attend college and remain engaged on the path toward their educational goals. (2, 4, 7)
Expanded Opportunity
Mentorship can help first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students gain access to guidance, social capital, and opportunities that may otherwise be harder to navigate. (2, 4, 6, 7)
Confidence & Independence
Supportive mentoring relationships can build self-efficacy, confidence, and students’ ability to navigate educational challenges. (3, 5, 6)
Success in STEM Fields
Mentorship and supportive educational relationships can strengthen self-efficacy and help women build confidence and leadership pathways in STEM. (5, 6)
Want to learn more?
Explore the research behind our mission, including key findings, supporting studies, and the evidence that shaped WiSH's mentorship model.
References
Raposa EB, Rhodes JE, Stams GJJM, et al. The Effects of Youth Mentoring Programs: A Meta-Analysis of Outcome Studies. Journal of Youth and Adolescence. 2019.
Reynolds JR, Parrish M. Natural Mentors, Social Class, and College Success. American Journal of Community Psychology. 2018;61(1-2):179-190. doi:10.1002/ajcp.12209.
Bayer A, Grossman JB, DuBois DL. Using Volunteer Mentors to Improve the Academic Outcomes of Underserved Students: The Role of Relationships. Journal of Community Psychology. 2015;43(4):408-429. doi:10.1002/jcop.21693.
National Institute of Justice. Mentoring Programs for Youth: A Promising Intervention for Delinquency Prevention.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Launches Groundbreaking Research on the Long-term Impacts of Mentorship. 2025. Big Brothers Big Sisters research summary
Cooke JE. A Case Study on the Impact of a Mentorship Program on Low Socioeconomic Status Students at a Four-Year Urban University. Drexel University; 2016.
Coluccio G, Muñoz-Herrera S, Adriasola E, Escobar E. Leadership Development in Women STEM Students: The Interplay of Task Behaviors, Self-Efficacy, and University Training. Behavioral Sciences. 2024;14(11):1087.
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