ABSTRACT
Mentoring that typically involves a relationship between a gifted student and a knowledgeable older individual is a viable alternative option to traditional schooling. Mentorships are highly recommended for gifted students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. College and career guidance is a valuable mentoring outcome for underserved populations. Gifted economically disadvantaged students are as motivated to attend college as their middle-class peers, and they receive similar support; however, they report being less prepared to go to college. Specialized schools emphasizing the study of STEM content areas are one option for gifted students interested in these areas. Mentorships in a STEM area might focus on participating in authentic research. An implicit benefit includes the development of tacit knowledge about the realities of having a career in a STEM field. Mentoring programs usually are organized and conducted by schools, universities, parent groups, service organizations, businesses and corporations, or spiritual groups.
