Since 1965, The Ohio State University Upward Bound Program has been instrumental in helping Columbus City high school students achieve their goals. Federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Upward Bound offers students the opportunity to excel not only in high school, but also in college and beyond.
Upward Bound is one of the federal TRiO programs, which are educational opportunity outreach initiatives designed to motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This includes outreach and support programs targeted to serve and assist low-income, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post baccalaureate programs.
Program Description
Students can apply and be accepted into the program at the end of their eighth grade year thru their eleventh grade year in high school. The Upward Bound Program lays a strong academic and social foundation and prepares students for college. Beyond the opportunity to partake in a positive, motivating, college-focused environment, members of The Ohio State University Upward Bound Program family receive intensive year-round academic preparation, tutoring services, and test preparation for the Ohio Graduation Test, ACT and SAT. Furthermore, students are afforded the opportunity to participate in college/cultural tours and personal/career development activities and workshops during Saturday Academy sessions and the Upward Bound Summer Institute.
Summer Component
During the summer component, students participate in a six-week enrichment institute. Students take core-subject classes, electives, attend program-sponsored career day, and college fair events, and college visits. Eligible graduating seniors participate in the Upward Bound Bridge Program, which affords them the opportunity to take actual college courses at The Ohio State University for six hours of transferable college credit.
Academic Year Component
Throughout the academic year and summer component, mathematics, science, language arts, and foreign language classes are taught to provide academic enrichment for all program participants. Additionally, students take an enrichment course that focuses on topics such as financial aid, scholarships, resume writing, choosing a college major and/or career, ACT/SAT preparation, and study skills as well as cultural, educational, and recreational program-sponsored activities, and building life skills.
