Western Texas College welcomed Upward Bound students to campus today for the grant’s annual Summer Bridge program. The summer program provides an opportunity for students to live on campus and attend classes; in other words, experience life as an actual college student. The staff designs special educational and cultural activities that widen students’ perspectives and open doors to opportunities.
The Upward Bound grant program serves students for free based on their families’ income and the desire to attend and graduate from college. Each student in the program must also be a potential first-generation college graduate (neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree).
“I have been with the Upward Bound program since 2006, and I can honestly say that this program works,” says Rachael Menix, Upward Bound Director.
Boasting alumni that include Oprah Winfrey, John Quiñones, and Patrick Ewing, Upward Bound is a nationwide federal grant program provided by the Department of Education. The goal of the grant is to help participants complete high school and successfully pursue postsecondary education.
“Our services include Saturday Academies during the school year, trips to college campuses, tutoring, a six-week summer program, and a college bridge component the summer after graduation,” added Menix. “We provide academic advisement as well as academic instruction for students through high school in order to prepare them for college.”
During the school year, Upward Bound hosts Saturday Academies at the high schools the program serves, providing resources, advising, and tutoring to help students succeed with their coursework.
At the grant’s expense during the Summer Bridge program, graduating seniors in the program enroll in one WTC course that transfers to their respective universities in the fall. They also participate in a job shadowing program in local businesses that aligns with their career goals. The students returning to high school in the fall attend classes English, Spanish, Volleyball, Art, Welding, and College Prep. The staff also plans activities that include fun and competitive games, as well as community service each week.
The summer program finishes with two major events: a banquet and a trip. The banquet celebrates the Upward Bound students, welcoming parents and teachers. The staff invites a former Upward Bound student to speak, and a champion of the games played over the course of the summer program is announced. The trip includes a college tour and experiencing cultural and historical sites.
“I have seen hundreds of students graduate high school and head to college with not only our [Upward Bound’s] help but help from other administrators, friends and family supporting them. Students in the program just need at least one person behind them, and we are honored to fill that role.”
Learn more about Upward Bound at wtc.edu/upwardbound.