Minds Matter DC
The #1 Skill That Sets College-Ready Students Apart
Why Self-Advocacy Is the Most Overlooked and Essential Skill for Postsecondary Success When we talk about college readiness with our students, we often focus on the visible metrics, rigorous coursework, standardized test prep, solid GPAs, and extracurricular involvement. But there’s one skill that doesn’t show up on transcripts or college applications, and yet it’s often…
Read More2025 MMDC Alumni Panel: Advice for College Success
At Minds Matter DC, we believe that one of the most valuable resources for students preparing for college is hearing directly from those who have walked the same path. Our 2025 MMDC Alumni Panel brought together former program participants to share their real-life college experiences, offering our current students a chance to ask questions, gain…
Read MoreMinds Matter DC Welcomes L’Toya Jones as Our New Executive Director
We are delighted to welcome L’Toya Jones to Minds Matter DC as our new Executive Director! L’Toya brings over a decade of experience and passion for educational equity to her new leadership role. She was most recently the Director of Programs at Minds Matter New York City (MMNYC), where she played a pivotal role in…
Read MoreOvercoming Challenges as a First-Generation College Student
Starting college is an important milestone for first-generation students, however, it’s like taking on an entire new world. You’re managing new academic demands, trying to understand the “unwritten rules” of college, and juggling expectations from family and friends, often without having some of the same support or guidance that other students might have. According to…
Read MoreMinds Matter and PhRMA Announce the Kenneth C. Frazier PhRMA Scholars Program
Minds Matter and PhRMA are pleased to announce The Kenneth C. Frazier PhRMA Scholars Program, in honor of retiring PhRMA board member and visionary industry leader Ken Frazier. This program will provide college scholarships to academically high achieving, low-income students in Washington, D.C. and in Ken’s hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Frazier, currently executive chairman of…
Read MoreNew PhRMA Scholars program provides support to exceptional college-bound DC students
In partnership with Minds Matter DC, the PhRMA Scholars program aims to help high achieving students from low-income backgrounds in the Washington, D.C. community cover costs associated with attending college or university. “Minds Matter DC is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization whose mission is to connect driven and determined students from low-income families with the people,…
Read MoreMMDC Mentee Clau Diah Receives a Full Ride to GW University
Clau Diah joined Minds Matter DC in its inaugural year as one of only five sophomores from a competitive pool of applicants. She indicated a strong interest in psychology, medicine, and creative writing. Throughout the course of her first year with Minds Matter, she worked diligently with her mentors and instructors to improve her SAT…
Read MoreMentee Spotlight: Justice Wright
So, to get started can you tell me your name, the year you are in school, and your favorite subject? My name is Justice Wright. I’m a senior at Cesar Chavez, and my favorite subject is math. I like that there’s a right and wrong answer. Do you have any hobbies or extracurriculars? I love…
Read MoreMentee Spotlight: Mariah Randriambololona
Would you mind telling me your name, what school you go to, and your favorite subject? My name is Mariah Randriambololona. I go to Woodrow Wilson senior high school, and my favorite subject is psychology. Outside of school do you have any hobbies or extracurriculars that you’re involved in? I’m really involved in community service…
Read MoreSupport MMDC through Amazon Smile
We are excited to announce that Minds Matter DC is now registered with Amazon Smile! When you shop through Amazon Smile, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases to Minds Matter of Washington, DC. This is a great, easy way to support the mission of Minds Matter while doing your everyday shopping. Simply use this…
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