The Root Scholar Center
Where scholars grow.
The Root Scholar Center provides mentorship experiences that connect high school students with real professionals — people who are actively building careers in the fields your student cares about. We believe every young person deserves access to the kind of guidance that changes the trajectory of their life. This summer, we're bringing that access to your student.
The Root Scholar Center Summer Mentorship 2026
Review Our Summer Mentorship Program Overview
Eight weeks.
Three expert mentors.
One showcase.
Your student leaves with a completed project, a professional relationship, and a clearer sense of who they are and where they're going.
Arts Mentorships
Get mentorship and acting lessons from an Atlanta-based Screen Actors Guild (SAG) actor.
Develop and complete a project of your choice in fashion design, home furniture construction, interior design, or other discipline.
Science Mentorships
Get mentored by an IT and cloud engineering professional with 10+ years of experience.
Meet The RSC Founder
Hi, I'm Dr. Erin Manaigo.
I started college at Howard University as a biology major with plans to go to medical school. Somewhere along the way I discovered environmental science research — and I loved it so much I never looked back. I went on to earn my PhD in Biogeochemistry from UC Davis, studying ways to make agriculture more sustainable in the face of climate change.
After graduate school I found my way into nonprofit work — and a dream that had always been in the back of my mind got louder. I’d always wanted to open a school. Not a traditional one. One where young people get what they actually need — rigorous academics, real mentors, financial literacy, emotional wellbeing, and community. A place where being young and curious and figuring yourself out is celebrated, not just tolerated.
The Root Scholar Center’s summer mentorship program is the beginning of that vision, and I'm so glad you're here for it.
— Dr. Erin
Have questions?
We'd love to hear from you.
Whether you're ready to enroll or just want to learn more — reach out. We respond within 48 hours.