Guiding First-Generation Scholars to Victory
Specialized college admission guidance for first generation and diaspora families navigating the U.S education system.
Culture · Clarity · Confidence
Join the WaitlistOur Mission
At MMERI Scholars, we support students and families of the diaspora as they navigate the college admissions journey with guidance that honors their heritage, uplifts their values, and turns first-generation journeys into lasting victories. We provide clarity, confidence, and culturally rooted advising that empowers families to make informed decisions about college and career pathways.
Meet the Founder
Lisa Banyem, M.Ed
Lead Advisor
Lisa Banyem is a mother, first-generation American, educator, and college access advocate who has spent nearly a decade guiding first-generation and diaspora families through the American education system. As someone who understands the weight of being “the first” in a family to navigate college, influenced by her Nigerian-Igbo roots, she built MMERI Scholars to offer the support she wished her immigrant parents had known how to access.
How We Support Families
Flexible guidance options based on the level of support your family needs.
Year-Long College Advising
Ongoing, 1:1 personalized guidance for families who want consistent support with academic planning, college strategy, and decision-making across the school year.
Learn MoreCollege Strategy & Planning Sessions
Focused strategy support for families who need clarity around a specific decision, timeline, or academic planning without committing to year-long advising.
Learn MoreWorkshops
Educational workshops designed to help families understand key parts of the college process through guided learning, practical tools, and shared community.
Learn MorePartner & School-Based Programs
Collaborative programs delivered in partnership with schools and community organizations to expand access to college knowledge for families.
Learn MoreFeatured Scholar Stories
Aysha
First-year college student
Vanderbilt University, Class of 2029
“Lisa helped me turn my lived experiences into a powerful story and believe that my background fuels my future.”
Aysha
First-generation · African American & Filipino
MMERI Parent
MMERI Parent of high school scholar
Diaspora family · Future healthcare pathway
“Lisa helped us understand the education system and make the right academic decisions early, before things went off track.”
MMERI Parent
Parent
Joel Yanez
First-year college student
UT Austin, McCombs School of Business, Class of 2029
“Lisa pushed me to apply to college and believe I could succeed, even when I didn’t think college was for me.”
Joel Yanez
Hispanic
Something New is Coming to MMERI Scholars
Our next advising cohort opens soon. Because our work is high-touch and personalized, availability is limited.
Join the list to be the first notified when doors open.
Your family's story matters here.
Your student's future is honored here.
Join the Waitlist – Victory Belongs to the FirstBy joining the waitlist, you agree to our Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, and Disclaimer.