Two women sitting at a table, engaged in a conversation with one woman raising her hand. One woman has braids with green highlights and wears glasses, the other wears glasses and a yellow shirt. There are stickers on the laptop, notebooks, and a mouse on the table, with a large abstract painting in the background.

WHY IT MATTERS

A young woman's future should never be determined by where she grew up. Yet, too many ambitious young women face barriers to higher education because they lack the mentorship, resources, and guidance needed to turn their potential into opportunity.

Student Journey Personas

  • A young woman holding a book stands on a college campus with other students walking and sitting around, historic brick buildings in the background, and a backpack on the steps nearby.

    "Before joining Mask Off, I struggled with anxiety and often doubted my abilities. Through mentorship and wellness workshops, I learned how to build confidence, ask for help, and believe in myself. Today, I feel prepared to navigate college and life with resilience and purpose."

    Destiny’s Story

  • A young woman sitting on a stone fountain in a college campus or park, smiling, with other students walking and reading in the background.

    "Mask Off opened doors I never knew were available. From college visits and scholarship guidance to school supplies and technology resources, I gained the tools I needed to pursue my goals. What once felt impossible now feels achievable because I know where to find support."

    Sarah’s story

  • Young smiling African American woman holding textbooks on college campus with historic brick building and students in background

    "As a first-generation college student, I didn't know where to begin. Mask Off gave me mentors who walked alongside me through course selection, college applications, financial aid, and career planning. I graduated with a clear plan, confidence in my future, and people who believed in me every step of the way."

    Hannah’s story

Our Impact

A group of women sitting in a room during a meeting or workshop; one woman in a yellow top is in the foreground, while three women, including one with a white headscarf, are in the background, with a laptop in front of them.

383:1

Three women standing outdoors against a city skyline, smiling and wearing blue and white T-shirts with phrases about self-love and happiness.

The average student-to-counselor ratio in Texas public schools, far above the recommended 250:1

15-20

Two young women standing outdoors among greenery, smiling at the camera. One is wearing a yellow shirt with 'Baylor Bears' on it, and the other is wearing a white shirt with 'Texas Tech Red Raiders' on it.

Girls per cohort, an intentional size built for meaningful mentor pairings and a close-knit community.

33%

Dropout reduction seen among marginalized girls in a comparable near-peer mentorship model.

Sources: American School Counselor Association (2023-24); CAMFED Learner Guides evaluation, via Center on Reinventing Public Education.