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WHAT IS UPWARD BOUND?

Alabama State University's Upward Bound Program provides fundamental support to students seeking college entrance. The program provides opportunities for participants to improve pre-college performance and ultimately succeed in higher education pursuits. Upward Bound serves high school students from low-income families and/or students in which neither parent holds a bachelors degree, and low-income, first-generation who are preparing to enter post-secondary education.

The emphasis of the Upward Bound Program is twofold:

  • students being accepted at a post-secondary institution
     
  • increasing the student’s cultural identification and self-identity, as self-esteem is an important aspect in student achievement*.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS 

  • Upward Bound students must meet the family income criterion as established by the U.S. Department of Education. Students are usually first-generation college students who have a need for academic support in order to pursue educational program beyond the secondary level.
     
  • Recruitment is focused on 9th and 10th-grade students upon recommendation from principals, counselors, teachers, area agencies or community leaders. Interested students may also submit applications directly to the program.
     
  • Students accepted for the program can continue to participate throughout their high school enrollment, including the summer following graduation.

PROGRAM SERVICES

Academic Year Component

The Academic Year Program takes place during the regular school year on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The curriculum consists of instruction in Reading, English, Writing and Basic Mathematical Theory and Applications.

Students are exposed to career planning and exploration. Other program activities such as pre-college seminars and educational/ cultural enrichment field trips are also offered. These seminars focus on how to apply for college and financial assistance.

The Upward Bound Program’s schedule of activities will not interfere with the student’s full participation in academic and non- academic activities at their secondary schools. Stipends will be awarded to defray the cost of transportation.

Summer Residential Component

The Summer Residential Program is designed to expose students to the college environment, thereby stimulating and enhancing their interest in college life. Upward Bound students will attend a six-week summer session on the campus of Alabama State University. They will have full use of all facilities that ASU students utilize.

The Upward Bound Program offers a Bridge Scholarship Program for those students who have graduated from high school and plan to attend Alabama State University in the earliest semester of graduation. The Bridge Program provides students with services and activities that aid in the transition from high school to college.

 

Click Here to watch a Short View of the Upward Bound College Tour and Cultural Trip.

SERVICES PROVIDED

  • Academic Tutorials
  • Test Taking/Study Skills Workshop
  • Financial Aid Workshop (FAFSA)
  • Peer Pressure/Self Esteem Workshop
  • Career Exploration
  • Mentoring
  • College Campus Exposure
  • Cultural Enrichment Activities
  • Saturday Instructional Sessions
  • Workshops for Family Participation
  • ACT Preparation
  • Assistance with College Admission
  • Scholarship Assistance

WHAT DOES IT COST?

The Upward Bound Program is offered at no expense to eligible participants. The primary goal of the program is to provide students with the opportunity to achieve academic success as they pursue educational growth beyond the secondary level and determine their goals.


SCHOOLS SERVICED 

  • Autaugaville High School
  • Calhoun High School
  • Central High School
  • JAG High School
  • Percy Julian High School
  • Sidney Lanier High School
  • Park Crossing High School

APPLY NOW FOR THE UPWARD BOUND PROGRAM

Click  here to apply

Please download the Letters of Recommendation to be completed by your guidance counselor and an academic teacher of your choice. Return the letters of recommendation to the UB staff to complete your application.

 

UPWARD BOUND STAFF

 

Voncile Love  

Voncile Love

Coordinator,

Upward Bound Program

Vacant

Counselor 

Upward Bound 

vlove@alasu.edu  
v334-604-9006 334-604-9029

 

first generation college