Upward Bound

Upward Bound is a Federal TRIO program that gives young people the opportunity to succeed in high school and prepare for college by overcoming class, social, academic and cultural barriers to higher education. It has been at Wilkes University since 1967.

The mission of the Upward Bound program at Wilkes University is to provide the framework for college success through individualized academic and personal services for potential first-generation college-bound high school students in Luzerne County who prove a financial need.

The vision of the Upward Bound program is to be Wilkes University’s prominent face of precollege success; to formulate and establish innovative partnerships in the community so that the horizons of our students broaden and college retention improves.

How We Help Students

Upward Bound provides the following services at no cost to participants:

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for Upward Bound, students must meet all of the following requirements:

• Show academic promise and enthusiasm toward learning.
• Be in the 10th grade in high school.
• Live in Luzerne County.
• Meet certain educational and economic criteria set by the US Department of Education.

How to Apply

Interested in Upward Bound? Eligible students may apply by:

• Asking your school counselor for an application.
• Contacting the Wilkes University Upward Bound program for an application.

Applications can be submitted to your guidance counselor or to our office. Please note a submitted application does not guarantee acceptance.

Program Schedules

Academic Year Program

Students come to the Wilkes University campus one evening per week to attend two academic classes and receive guidance and counseling services.

The course selected for each student is based on the academic schedule they have in their home school and include:

They also explore future career goals and begin to form college plans.

In addition to weekly classes, Upward Bound has an ongoing tutoring program at no cost to the student. Most of the tutors are upper class students enrolled at Wilkes. Current students in need of a tutor are asked to contact our Academic Coordinator. Tutoring takes place in Conyngham Hall on the first floor, Monday - Thursday from 3 - 6 p.m.

Summer Residential Program

During the Summer Residential Program, students come to Wilkes to experience college life during a six-week residential program. Students live in a residence hall supervised by Upward Bound staff and attend full days of classes and activities.

The intensive six-week program gives students a chance to grow academically, socially and personally by providing:

All students must participate in the six-week residential program before graduating high school. Students participate in the six-week residential program following their sophomore year of high school.

Summer Bridge Program

Summer Bridge is a five-week, full-scale residential component with housing that follows the Wilkes University schedule for the first summer session. This program is offered to Upward Bound students following their senior year of high school. Each student enrolls in two college classes for credit. The strength of this component is the opportunity for students to participate in classes as a university student while benefiting from the support of Upward Bound. Summer Bridge is a limited enrollment program.

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