Our Story
A Realization
Many low-income students are unaware of the need-based scholarships that can make higher education accessible. This realization was a turning point for Danny Ye, founder of Unity Scholars. Coming from a low-income background, Danny discovered that colleges offered substantial financial aid from his dream school only after extensive research during his application process. Despite being qualified, many of his peers were unaware of these opportunities and missed out on applying to institutions that could change their lives. This lack of awareness became a driving force to address inequities in college access.
Danny Ye | Babson Class of 2028
The College Struggle
The transition to college can be challenging for first-generation students. Navigating college culture, being away from home for the first time, and adjusting to academic expectations often leads to feelings of isolation and homesickness. These struggles can overshadow the college experience and hinder success.
A Shared Vision
Isaac Jiang, a student at Cornell University, shared similar challenges in finding affordable help and the right mentorship when applying to colleges. These shared experiences highlighted the need for a program with the resources the expensive companies offered at a fraction of the cost. This realization led to the creation of Unity Scholars, a program designed to bridge the gap and provide mentorship and guidance to all who seek it.
Isaac Jiang | Cornell Class of 2028
The Mission
"Unity Scholars Network empowers high school students and families navigating the college admissions process by providing accessible, holistic near-peer mentorship. We bridge gaps in the current college advising industry by guiding students—regardless of GPA, extracurriculars, or background—through a structured mentorship program that helps them build their personal brand and achieve their college aspirations. While we operate on a highly affordable paid model, all proceeds are reinvested into expanding resources and support for our students."
Our Objectives
Affordable, High-Impact Mentorship – Offer cost-effective, near-peer mentorship that provides personalized college admissions guidance without financial burden.
Guidance for ‘Lost’ Families – Support students and families who are new to or overwhelmed by the college process, ensuring they have the tools to navigate applications with confidence.
Holistic College Readiness – Help students craft strong applications by refining their narratives, extracurricular activities, and essays, regardless of where they start.
Equitable Access to Expertise – Connect students with mentors from top universities, offering insights and strategies typically reserved for privileged applicants.
Reinvestment in Student Success – Allocate all proceeds back into the organization to continuously improve and expand services for future students.
Community-Driven Support – Foster a network where students and mentors uplift one another, creating a culture of shared success and long-term growth.
Unity Scholars Today
Unity Scholars connects students in need with mentors from top universities who understand their journey. Through mentorship and a supportive network, the program aims to help students not only access higher education but also thrive in it—all at no cost to participants.
