Upward Bound

Upward Bound is a program funded by the U.S. Department of Education to help students develop the skills, motivation and self-confidence necessary for success in high school and college. The Southern Vermont College Upward Bound Program serves students in grades 9-12 from area high schools in New York, Vermont and Massachusetts.

The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in their precollege performance and ultimately in their higher education pursuits. Upward Bound serves low-income, first- generation high school students who attend targeted high schools in New York, Mass, and VT.  The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education.

Upward Bound at Southern Vermont College has served potential students who are referred by teachers, guidance counselors, and community resources and are encouraged to apply (students may also refer themselves). The Upward Bound staff selects participants based on a number of eligibility criteria and personal interviews. Selected students enter the program during their first or second year and receive services throughout high school.

Upward Bound seeks students who are willing to work hard and show continual improvement in their coursework. In order to succeed, Upward Bound students will need to develop a strong commitment to reaching their goals of high academic and personal achievement that will enable them to go to college.

Who Qualifies?

Students who are selected to participate in Upward Bound must demonstrate the academic potential and desire to attend a four-year college, be in the 9th or 10th grade at the time of application and meet specific family income guidelines and/or are potential first-generation college graduates.

During the School Year

During the high school academic year, program services include: weekly tutoring sessions; academic counseling; classroom instruction; vocabulary and other enrichment activities; college entrance exam preparation; study skills workshops; social, cultural and personal development activities; educational reward trips; and a comprehensive six-week summer component that includes extensive coursework and allows students to live on campus and adapt to the college environment.

All of the Upward Bound activities described above are offered at no cost to selected participants.

TOP 10 Reasons to Attend Upward Bound at Southern Vermont College
How Do I Enroll My Child? 

The Summer Program

(beginning in late June and ending in early August)

  • Live in a Southern Vermont College Residence Hall Sunday through Thursday for six weeks with trained staff members.
  • Participate in interesting and educational classes each morning.
  • Attend workshops and fun, informal classes you choose.
  • Contribute to the local region through various community action projects.
  • Enjoy hiking, camping, theatre shows, sports, art, and lots more in a supportive, accepting environment.

F.O.C.U.S. (Freshman Orientation to College Undergraduate Skills)

  • For Upward Bound students completing their senior year.
  • Free room and board at Southern Vermont College during Summer Program.
  • Two free college-level courses and books.
  • Academic tutoring and support from a resident assistant.

The Academic Year

  • Participate in weekly tutoring sessions at your high school.
  • Attend monthly meetings with a program counselor to discuss academic, career, or personal goals.
  • Enjoy monthly events geared towards social, cultural, and vocational enrichment.
  • Explore metropolitan areas and college campuses during sophomore and junior trips.
  • Obtain assistance in all aspects of the college application process, including financial aid information.

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must meet certain family income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education and/or have parents who have not completed a four-year college degree.

Are you Interested?

For more information, contact your high school guidance counselor or the Upward Bound Office at 802-447-4665 or e-mail upbound@svc.edu. Download a copy of the Upward Bound Application.

See Tutoring Schedule. Please remember a minimum of one hour is required to maintain good standing in the program.

College Search & Test Prep Sites

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Regents Prep & Homework Help

Career/Life Skills

If you are an alum of the Upward Bound Program at Southern Vermont College, please complete the Upward Bound Alumni Survey.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Find out more about Upward Bound!
Download the Application Checklist.

UPWARD BOUND STAFF
Noreen Lenilko, Assistant Director, Upward, 802-447-4665, nlenilko@svc.edu
Carolyn Sapone, Tutor/Mentor, 802-447-4665, csapone@svc.edu