SMA participants are selected by classroom teachers, minority liaisons, and school administrators who they feel could benefit from the mentoring process as research has shown that choice instead of random selection increase the chances of mentoring benefits (Brenner, M. & Rumberger, R., 2002).   Students who are under-achieving academically and those who are having social issues including behavior and isolation are targeted for participation.   All the students that have been selected will be offered the opportunity to participant in SMA.  After the student and parent sign their letter of commitment, the program director will match the student with a college mentor or professional adult in the community.