“…Role models—defined as cognitive constructions based on individual perceptions to be similar to others in particular roles, and the desire to increase this perceived similarity through emulation of attributes and achievement of identical goals (Gibson, ; Shapiro et al, )—have been shown to counterbalance stereotypes and change preferences in different settings over an individual's life or career. Access to mentoring, often via role models, seems to influence academic achievement (Eble & Hu, ; Gershenson et al, ), education and occupational choices (Kofoed & McGovney, ; Lyons & Zhang, ; Porter & Serra, in press), job performance, and advancement (Blau et al, ; Lyle & Smith, ). It seems that, at least in the short‐term, exposure to role models affects preferences, aspirations, and beliefs (Kram & Isabella, ), especially among underrepresented groups such as gender and race minorities (Gershenson et al, ; Kofoed & McGovney, ).…”