What we do

Our work is built and led by educational experts and delivered by a community of dedicated volunteer professionals who align with our mission and reflect the multi-dimensional identities of the students we support.

Beginning in their sophomore year of high school, our students spend 4 hours per week during the school year in Minds Matter sessions with their mentors and volunteer instructors.

In a typical day, a Minds Matter student will spend the first portion of session working in a group setting on either Writing & Critical Thinking (sophomores) or ACT Prep (juniors) or college advising (seniors). The students spend the afternoon with their mentors and the rest of their team. A day’s activities may include: researching academic summer programs or colleges, working on personal statements and applications, or engaging in workshops and panels focused on college success.

Through these sessions, Minds Matter students gain invaluable access to academic and social enrichment, all while strengthening their college applications.

The Three-Year Program

  • The Sophomore Program is designed to build confidence, ambition, and motivation for students early in their high school years.

    • Math Matters: Improve math scores through a structured weekly curriculum taught by trained instructors

    • Writing & Critical Thinking: Strengthen writing and critical thinking skills such as structuring arguments, developing logical reasoning, and communicating ideas

    • Summer Program (Regional): Work with mentors to apply for a valuable Summer Program at a college or university to gain experience taking college-level courses and exploring college major and career interests in the summer

  • The Junior Program is dedicated to preparing high school students for college through ACT prep and college advising.

    • Test Prep: Get familiarized with ACT by learning about test-taking strategies, refreshing basic skills, and taking diagnostic exams to identify strengths and areas for improvement

    • Summer Program (National): Work with mentors to apply for a valuable Summer Program at a college or university to gain experience taking college-level courses and exploring college major and career interests in the summer

  • The core focus of the Senior Program is to support students in all aspects of the college application process, including building a college list, writing impactful essays, understanding the financial aid process, and applying for scholarships.

    • Writing & Critical Thinking: Improve college essays

    • College Advising: Work with mentors to research and select colleges to apply to, write impactful essays, understand the financial aid process, and apply for scholarships

Join Minds Matter

Empower Your Future

Students commit every Saturday for three years to achieve their highest potential and secure their place in higher education.

Make aN Impact

Meet a like-minded community of volunteers committed to changing lives through higher education.

DonAte a gift

Help us provide the people, preparation, and possibilities crucial for college success by making a gift today.