Upward Bound

What Is Upward Bound?

Upward Bound is a program funded through the US Department of Education that works with high school students to help prepare them for post-secondary education. The Upward Bound program at MSSU serves 60 students from six area school districts: Carl Junction, Carthage, East Newton, Joplin or Webb City high school.

Who Can Qualify for Upward Bound?

• Must be a current freshman, sophomore or junior
• Attend Carl Junction, Carthage, East Newton, Joplin or Webb City high school
• Be a US citizen or permanent resident
• Be a potential first-generation college student (cannot reside with a parent that has completed a bachelor's degree) and/or satisfy income guidelines
• Must be able to attend the six-week summer College Simulation Experience
• Must be committed to academic excellence

What Is The Cost of Participating In Upward Bound?

The services provided to participants in Upward Bound are free! In fact, students involved in the program can earn money for participating! Each month during the school year, students can earn up to $40.00 and up to $60.00 during the summer. Upward Bound will also pay for college admissions and ACT test registration costs for their students.

What Do Upward Bound Students Do?

While in Upward Bound, students are involved in many activities that help prepare them for post-secondary education.

Some of the activities include:

• Monthly workshops focusing on topics such as ACT preparation, career exploration, study skills, financing college, and leadership development
• Field trips to area college campuses and cultural sites
• Academic tutoring for current classes
• Opportunities to shadow college students and professional mentors
• Six-week College Simulation Experience on the MSSU campus