Students look to Upward Bound for Success

High school students can earn a stipend and gain valuable skills this summer as they prepare for college through the TRiO Upward Bound Program at Chesapeake College.

For more than 50 years, Upward Bound has been preparing students in need for college and success after graduation. Students in the program get guidance and resources from 9^th grade through college. Founded in 1965, it was the first federally funded program to help low-income and first-generation students succeed in higher education and attain middle class status. Locally, the program helped students through the mid-1990s.

Participants in Upward Bound at Chesapeake College include Melissa Andrevil of Federalsburg.

A native of Haiti, Melissa came to the United States when she was 7, at first settling in South Florida, then later relocating to Caroline County

Melissa is already academically motivated, taking Advanced Placement classes in her second language and looking ahead to studying psychology and biotechnology in college. The program, she said, will help build on her academic success and set a pathway to achievement after high school.

Upward Bound, Melissa said, provides the tools and guidance she needs to successfully navigate the future. A senior at Colonel Richardson High School, Melissa is considering her college choices. As the admissions decisions arrive, she is faced with significant decisions that will impact the course of her life.

“My mom knew about the program and really encouraged me to apply so that I can learn what I need to know to make the right college choices,” Melissa said. “She also thought it would be a good way for me to meet more people my age outside of school.”

Melissa helps care for her younger sibling, in addition to her schoolwork and Upward Bound tasks. With a keen interest in science, Melissa lists biology as one of her favorite school subjects. This semester, she is taking AP Chemistry and AP English.

Director of TRiO Upward Bound Mark Berry said Melissa represents the type of student who benefits most from Upward Bound participation.

“When I first met Melissa, the first thing I noticed was her grit. She has a desire within herself to be successful and continue on her educational journey after high school. These are the types of students we want to assist in the Upward Bound program. Those who excel in the classroom and yearn for education,” said Mr. Berry.

As a first-generation student, Melissa will be the first person in her family to attend college. She knows that the college admissions and enrollment process present additional challenges to students who do not have family members with college experience.

She said, “I appreciate learning more about it now. I feel like I will be better prepared for what is ahead of me.”

Learning the basics of college financial aid, for example, can help a student work through the maze of paying for college.

“The college application process, choosing the right school and then transitioning from high school to college are challenging on their own. First-generation students face even more challenges because their families are as unfamiliar with the world of higher education as their students. Through Upward Bound, these students learn the vocabulary and processes of college. We guide them through the application process and show them what to expect once they have enrolled,” Mr. Berry said.

In addition to the school year activities, Upward Bound includes a six-week, intensive summer session designed to keep students on track for continued success as they transition to the next grade.  Each of the six weeks will include days with an academic focus and one day of enrichment, according to Mr. Berry. For graduating high school seniors in Upward Bound, a summer bridge program will include two Chesapeake classes for college credit.  These credits can provide a head start at Chesapeake College or be transferred to a four-year college.

The Upward Bound application deadline for the Summer Bridge Program is April 28. Apply and learn more at www.chesapeake.edu/upwardbound.