Abstract 1237 Transformative Mentorship: Empowering Undergraduates at a Hispanic-Serving Institution

In an increasingly diverse educational landscape, the significance of effective mentoring programs extends well beyond academic guidance. A thriving mentorship initiative serves as a catalyst for personal growth, inclusivity, equity, and career preparedness, positively impacting students, mentors, and the entire educational institution. The ÉLITE Career Mentoring Program exemplifies transformative mentorship for undergraduates at a public Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). Dedicated to empowering students, particularly underserved and first-generation individuals, ÉLITE provides professional development seminars, career guidance, and network-building opportunities. The program's core mission is to bolster student success by delivering support for career development, nurturing professional growth, and facilitating connections with professionals across various fields and fellow peers. Our assessment extends beyond students' experiences during the program, encompassing the outcomes achieved one-year post-experience. Remarkably, 100% of our participants lauded their experience with the ÉLITE Program and would enthusiastically recommend it to their peers. The program proved highly effective in instilling readiness, confidence, and a positive outlook on professional futures. Participants made significant adjustments or changes to their career plans, expressing great satisfaction with the accessibility and interaction with mentors and the professional guidance they received. Students reported that the ÉLITE Program significantly contributed to goal achievement. Within one year, the program's impact on student performance was extraordinary. All participants continued their education, advancing in their majors, pursuing professional school, or securing positions in their field of study. A remarkable 70% were engaged in research projects, 30% received academic awards, and a significant number held leadership positions. These outcomes further motivated them to engage in additional mentorship experiences, either as mentors or mentees. Alumni attested that the ÉLITE program was highly effective in fostering strong communication skills, encouraging further education, promoting continuous learning and adaptability in their careers, and helping them identify or refine their potential future plans and professional goals, among other benefits. In conclusion, this initiative underscores the remarkable influence of transformative mentorship on the achievements of undergraduates in a Hispanic-Serving Institution.