This article presents a model for affirming the diversity of backgroun
ds, learning styles, and career aspirations for students in baccalaure
ate and graduate nursing education. The theoretical model, known as Pa
thways, is developed with a travel analogy and begins by acknowledging
the diversity of educational preparation and socialization experience
d by students from various cultural, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.
Learning styles and needs of these students are addressed through ass
essment and interventions that are individualized and serve as maps an
d guides through the professional learning sequence and into future pr
ofessional careers. The model is useful for planning and evaluating ex
panded services for a broad spectrum of students. The focus of this ar
ticle is on the preparation of faculty as mentors for students with di
sadvantaged backgrounds.