Explore our personalized college advising programs designed to help students Get In. Graduate. and Go Far.
Learn about the communities we partner with and the impact we’re making in regions across the country.
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Discover ways to support our mission—whether as an alumni, donor, or volunteer, your involvement matters.

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Access tools, articles, and worksheets designed to empower students and families on their college journey.

Get to know Bottom Line—our team, history, and career opportunities that drive our mission forward.

See how our data-driven approach and proven models are transforming the lives of first-generation college students.

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College Success Starts Here

Bottom Line is a community of relentless allies committed to building strong connections with students, providing them with individual support, and ensuring they have the guidance needed to earn a college degree.

Student Application
13%
Bottom Line students are 13% more likely to enroll in a four-year institution compared to their peers.
23%
Bottom Line students are 23% more likely to earn a bachelor’s degree within five years of high school
2.8X
Bottom Line students are 2.8x’s more likely to note Bottom Line advisors were “very important” in their application and decision process vs. other advisors

The Student Journey

Whether students are just beginning their journey or navigating the challenges of college life, Bottom Line is here to support them every step of the way. Our programs—Access, Success, and Bluprint—are designed to guide students at every stage, from preparation to graduation and beyond.

  1. Confirm Eligibility and Apply
    Students begin by confirming their eligibility and submitting their application. Bottom Line is here to support them through every step of the process, ensuring they have the guidance they need to succeed.
  2. Get Matched with a Bottom Line Advisor
    Once accepted, students are paired with a dedicated Bottom Line Advisor who will work with them to create a personalized college success plan. Together, they will set clear goals and craft a roadmap tailored to the student’s unique needs.
  3. Build a Personalized Roadmap for Success
    With their Advisor’s guidance, students will develop a customized plan to address academic, financial, and personal goals, ensuring they are equipped to face challenges and achieve long-term aspirations.
  4. Get the Resources, Skills, and Affirmations to Persist and Thrive Through College
    Students will gain the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to succeed throughout their college journey, building the confidence and skills required to navigate obstacles and stay on track.
  5. Conquer the College Experience and Reach Your Career Goals
    Bottom Line supports students from start to finish, providing the resources, guidance, and mentorship they need to conquer the college experience and achieve their career goals.

Explore our Resources designed to keep students prepared, informed, and empowered with our latest tools, insights, and updates.

Resources for Tomorrow’s Leaders

Our Student Programs

Bottom Line’s college advising programs are designed for first-generation students to get into college, graduate, and go far in life.

Access Program
Personalized guidance for high school students navigating the college application process.
Success Program
Comprehensive on-campus support to help first-generation students graduate career-ready.
Bluprint Program
Virtual support and AI-powered tools for students outside Bottom Line’s target schools.

Student Stories

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Paola Valdez
Alumni, Access Program
“Bottom Line has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me.”
Alexis Solano headshot
Alexis Solano
Alumni, Success Program
“I’ve learned that moments of doubt come from fear of uncertainty, but with patience and courage, great things are possible,' he says. With Bottom Line’s support, Alexis has charted a new path in Automotive Technology, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success.”
Saul Garcia headshot
Saul Garcia
Alumni, Relentless Ally
“I hope to be a great example for those people that fight every day and live unpredictable lives and still manage to dig deep and make something happen."”
Sarah Sanchez headshot
Sarah Sanchez
Alumni, Access Program
“As a first-generation college student, Sarah felt overwhelmed by the college process—until Bottom Line became her guide. 'I didn’t have anyone to help me navigate scholarships or applications,' she shared. With her advisor’s support, Sarah secured a scholarship and a spot at UIC, even earning recognition from the White House for her inspiring journey.”
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Sheneita Graham
Alumni, Bottom Line's Director of Culturally Responsive Programming
“From Student to Changemaker: A Bottom Line Leader's Inspiring Path”

Are you an educator or professional passionate about supporting first-gen college students?

Learning Labs by Bottom Line offers researched-backed training opportunities and resources tailored for educators supporting first-generation college students.

What You’ll Achieve:

  • Proven Expertise
  • Flexible Learning
  • Actionable Strategies
  • National Peer Network
  • Practical Tools
  • Certification of Completion
Learn more

Become a Relentless Ally

Bottom Line partners with first-generation college students from under-resourced communities and backgrounds to get into and through college, and successfully launch a career. Join us in helping our students achieve their dreams!