Step 1
About Our Student Program
The Minds Matter program is an all-encompassing, long-term commitment — from us and our students — structured specifically for diverse students from low-income families in Cleveland.
We ensure our students become exceptional candidates for college and poised to succeed in their careers.
After three years of practice, consistency, and growth, Minds Matter students graduate from high school and our program as incoming college students with a plan for building their futures and our ongoing support as they pursue their college degrees.
100% of Minds Matter students are accepted into a four-year college.
We provide the support students need to earn scholarships and financial aid to cover the cost of college.
We're different from other programs
Each student is paired with two adult mentors who guide, challenge, and celebrate them through their three-year journey.
Academic success is the top factor to receiving college admission, so we prioritize tutoring in writing and math skills in one-on-one and group settings.
Students are guided through the intricacies of finding and applying for financial aid. All Minds Matter students receive some form of financial aid and many get all their college expenses covered.
Every Saturday throughout the program, we meet with students for a 5-hour collaborative study session. It's rigorous, like a sixth day of school, and our students succeed.
As a key part of our mission, we help students identify target schools, prepare compelling applications, and write strong application essays that highlight their stories.
Students receive more than 80 hours of in-class instruction on ACT
preparation and writing skills, ensuring higher test scores and more college opportunities.
Students develop skills in professional communication, problem-solving, career planning, and financial responsibility in preparation for life through high school, college, and careers.
Our students get opportunities to experience life on a college campus, explore their interests, take university courses, and meet other motivated scholars — all costs covered by Minds Matter.
Students build relationships with long-term friends & mentors and feel a sense of belonging in the Minds Matter community.
Minds Matter students see a 5-point average increase in their ACT scores.
Characteristics of Minds Matter students
The time you’re investing is an investment in yourself!
- Academically motivated
- Displays maturity and a strong work ethic
- Determined to succeed
- Committed to personal growth
- Aligned with our values
- Willing to commit Saturdays during the school year to college prep sessions
Our Student Journey
Year 1
Sophomore
Each student is paired with two adult mentors who guide, challenge, and celebrate them through their three-year journey.
- Community Building
- Writing & Critical Thinking
- Mentoring
- ACT Foundations
- Summer Program
Year 2
Junior
Students learn about the ACT and test-taking strategies and identify and apply to residential summer programs at colleges around the country.
- ACT Test Prep, Tutoring & Exams
- Academic & Career Exploration
- Mentoring
- College Advising
- Summer Program
Year 3
Senior
Students and families receive personalized support and guidance through every step of the college application process.
- College Advising & Family Supports
- Financial Aid Guidance
- Mentoring
- ACT Exams
- College Applications & Essay Reviews
- College Readiness
College & Beyond
Students and families receive personalized support and guidance through every step of the college application process.
- College & Career Coaching
- Financial Aid Guidance
- Advocacy
100% of Minds Matter students will go to their best fit school.
63% of Minds Matter students are admitted to Barron's Most, Highly, or Very Competitive schools.
Minds Matter has completely transformed my fears into confidence that I am capable of accomplishing my goals. Never before had I been placed in an environment so full of people, resources, and a curriculum that is uniquely tailored to my needs as a low-income student. Minds Matter has instilled lifetime values of dedication, scholarship, and the sheer willpower to accomplish whatever it is I set my mind to, regardless of my circumstances.
Chardon, Minds Matter Class of 2024,
Princeton University Class of 2028