SPARK Mentoring Program

Abstract

SPARK Mentoring Program Undergraduate Research

The purpose of our undergraduate research is to determine if the SPARK mentoring program achieves optimal development through the 5 C’s. The 5 C’s are the character, competence, confidence, caring, and connection. The character signifies morals and values, competence shows ability, caring shows the relationship from mentor to mentee, confidence highlights the knowledge of the activities occurred, and the connection illustrates the bond developed between the mentors and mentees. The SPARK mentor evaluates themselves on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest for every C. As quantitative research is collected, qualitative research will consist of testimonies from the mentors based on the activities each week. We expect a steady increase in our quantitative and qualitative surveys to discover the highest optimal development. We expect responses to be leveled before the activity and then increased after the activity. With quantitative and qualitative data, our research will show optimal development increase with every week passed. As for optimal development, each SPARK mentor is expected to reach a stage of self-actualization due to plans for the mentees. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs explains if basic needs are met, then self-actualization increases. The basic needs for SPARK mentors include food, water, warmth, and rest provided through the program. Safety needs are assured through the advisors of the SPARK program, while belongingness and love are associated with the bond of other SPARK mentors. SPARK mentors are expected to have a rise in self-esteem when they understand their support system, which conveys leadership with the SPARK mentees reaching self-actualization. Self-actualization is achieving one’s full potential, including creative activities. The SPARK mentors are bound to orchestrate creative activities when self-actualization is reached.