Upward Bound

Upward Bound -new

Upward Bound

Operating under a federal grant, Upward Bound identifies students with an interest and the motivation in advancing their education at a two or four year college.  Upward Bound provides services and activities throughout the year, including summer and academic year components.  An accelerated curriculum, life skills workshops, and cultural events are provided from the time of entrance through completion of high school and college admission.

The program utilizes tutors and an intensive curriculum to help improve mathematics, science, literature/composition, and other academic skills.

Upward Bound Eligibility Requirements

  • Be in the ninth or tenth grade of high school

  • Meet first generation college student guidelines and/or meet income guidelines as determined by the U.S. Department of Education

  • Possess a motivation to succeed in college

  • Possess a 2.5 grade point average in a college prep curriculum

Academic Year and Summer Components

Upward Bound consists of two components – an academic year component which runs throughout the school year and a six week summer component.

Academic Year Component

  • Weekly tutorial sessions

  • Monthly campus meetings, which include activities involving speakers, workshops, field trips, and various social activities

  • Cultural and education trips such as campus visits, plays, and concerts

  • Assistance with completion of college documents to support students in the transition from high school to college

Summer Component

The students live on campus in a VU residence hall during the summer component to experience a college environment.  The students share a dorm room with another student from Upward Bound.  Some other activities include:

  • Intensive course curriculum to enhance student academic progress

  • Enrichment through cultural activities such as trips to museums, historical places, etc.

  • Empowerment to increase your social skills through training such as problem solving, decision making, and time management

  • Encouragement to explore and achieve individual career goals

  • Interaction with the community through a variety of Service Learning activities

Apply to Upward Bound

Follow these Steps

Participating High Schools

Contact Information


Jennifer Kotter

Director

Phone: (812) 888-4310

Email: jkotter@vinu.edu


Hannah Robinson

Assistant Director

Phone: (812) 888-5241

Email: hannah.robinson@vinu.edu


Anne Horrall

Office Manager

Phone: (812) 888-5373

Email: ahorrall@vinu.edu

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