A Constellation Model for Mentoring Undergraduates During COVID-19

Conceptualizing mentoring beyond a traditional one-to-one mentor-mentee model, we utilized constellation framework with collaborative co-mentoring among faculty, staff, near-peers, and community partners. We conducted multi-method study to examine students’ perceptions of relationships, focus in this article on participants’ how the global pandemic changed their relationships. Analyses study’s surveys interviews yielded four primary themes: 1) scaffolded, developmental programming diverse set mentors an interconnected positively impacts mentors’ experiences during unexpected challenges like pandemic; 2) skilled requires dynamic, individualized balance instrumental, psychosocial, reciprocal practices, taking into account unique aspects identities; 3) reduction in-person relational was associated significant challenges, but occasionally offset by opportunities; 4) gaps exist campus ecosystem, especially for students minoritized identities who are not participants cohorted programs. A case multi-year, experientially rich, academically rigorous program highlights potential collaborative, interconnected, globally oriented constellations support personal, academic, professional development, particularly when were agile adapted new contexts. Challenges incurred implementing model undergraduate included scalability capacity, forming