Shaping Scholars. Shifting Systems.
What we do
Mentorship & Peer Leadership
At the heart of FSI is a powerful mentorship network made up of college students, graduate students, and professionals who serve as near-peer guides. Our mentors provide students with ongoing support, academic guidance, and encouragement—building authentic, long-lasting relationships. Through one-on-one sessions, group mentorship cohorts, and leadership shadowing, students not only receive direction but also grow into mentors themselves, creating a self-sustaining community of future leaders.
Research & Pre-Professional Exposure
We believe in giving students early, meaningful exposure to professional environments and research experiences. FSI partners with labs, universities, and innovation hubs to connect students with real-world learning opportunities. From summer internships and shadowing to independent research projects, students gain firsthand insight into careers in medicine, science, and academia—long before college even begins. These experiences are paired with reflective discussions and skill-building workshops to maximize growth.
Academic Access & Honors Program Preparation
FSI works at the frontlines of academic equity, helping underrepresented high school students gain access to elite honors programs, research institutions, and competitive colleges. We demystify the admissions process through hands-on workshops, application bootcamps, and essay support tailored to students' unique stories and aspirations. Our curriculum doesn’t stop at GPA — we foster intellectual curiosity and equip students with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to thrive in academic environments where they’ve historically been excluded.
Community-Driven Outreach & School Partnerships
FSI is more than a program—it’s a movement built on collaboration. We work directly with public schools, charter networks, and community-based organizations to implement customized initiatives that support students where they are. Our school partnerships include student ambassador programs, college and career days, leadership summits, and afterschool academies. In every setting, we prioritize cultural responsiveness, accessibility, and student voice.
Leadership Development & Innovation
We cultivate student leaders who aren’t just preparing for success—they’re creating it. Through public speaking, civic engagement projects, student-run campaigns, and entrepreneurship workshops, FSI students learn to advocate for themselves and others. We encourage bold thinking and solution-building, giving students the tools to identify problems in their communities and develop real, actionable change initiatives that they can lead with pride.
