Common Ground Mentorship
A program for first-gen, low-income students charting paths to their future
About the Program
Standing on common ground
At Uncommon Futures, we know the college journey is more than just applications and essays—it’s about finding a path that aligns with who you are and where you want to go. For first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students, the road to higher education can feel especially challenging to navigate. That’s why we created a space where students support each other, share experiences, and find guidance toward a future that’s authentic and meaningful.
The Common Ground mentorship program pairs FGLI high school students with FGLI/BIPOC college students or recent graduates who have stood on the same ground and walked the same path. With 10 hours of free, one-on-one support, our mentors are here to offer guidance on the college application process, chat about life, and help you align your vision and values for your future.
-
Common Ground connects first-generation, low-income high school students with college/recent graduate mentors. This includes:
10 Free Hours of One-on-One Mentorship: Personalized guidance on everything from choosing best-fit schools to writing your personal statement and applying for scholarships.
Peer-Led Support: You’ll be paired with a mentor who better understands the unique challenges you face and who’s dedicated to supporting you with compassion and useful resources.
A Focus on Purpose: Our program isn’t just about checking boxes. More than anything, it’s about meaningful connection and having a cheerleader to support you on your path.
*Because our mentors are not professional college counselors, their support does not guarantee your admission to college. We find that this is a great supplemental support system, in addition to other services available to low-income students (such as college access non-profits and high school counselors).
-
Common Ground is for 11th and 12th grade high school students who are first-generation and/or low-income. In order to qualify, we ask that you:
Have a 3.0 GPA or above
Are either the first member in your family to attend college OR meet the following:
Household annual income is $60,000 or less
Enrollment in a free and/or reduced lunch program
Receive federal, state, or local aid specific for low-income families
*If none of these apply, but finances are a limiting factor, we’ll still do our best to support you within our capacity
-
First-generation, low-income (FGLI) students face significant barriers in higher education—financial challenges, lack of familial guidance, and feelings of imposter syndrome. These obstacles can affect their academic success and overall wellbeing, often making it harder to feel a sense of belonging or navigate the college process.
We believe identity-affirming mentorship is key to overcoming these barriers. Mentors who share similar backgrounds provide not just academic support, but also the emotional validation that helps FGLI students thrive. Research shows that mentorship improves students' confidence, sense of belonging, and persistence, leading to better outcomes and higher retention rates.
How it Works
-
Students submit a short application.
-
We pair mentees with one of our Common Ground mentors
-
Mentees receive 10 hours of flexible guidance—on essays, applications, scholarships, or whatever they need.