Upward Bound at Arkansas Tech University: More Than Just Financial Aid
For many high school students, the prospect of navigating the complex world of college applications and financial aid can feel overwhelming. That’s where Upward Bound steps in, offering guidance and support to students who are ready to take that next step toward higher education. But as Caydance Metzer, a recent Dover High School graduate, discovered, Upward Bound offers much more than just a crash course in FAFSA forms. It’s a life-changing experience.
Caydance initially joined Upward Bound seeking help with the financial aid process, hoping to ease the burden of college costs. Little did she know, her summer in the program, especially the Summer Academy, would equip her with a whole lot more than just financial know-how. “I was kinda nervous at first, not gonna lie,” Caydance admits. “But once I got to campus and met everyone, I knew it was gonna be a good time.”
Summer Academy: A Taste of College Life
Imagine a summer where you get a sneak peek into college life without the pressure of exams and deadlines. That’s exactly what the Upward Bound Summer Academy at Arkansas Tech University (ATU) offers. Every summer, around one hundred bright-eyed high schoolers from the Arkansas River Valley descend upon ATU’s Russellville campus, ready to dive into a month of learning, laughter, and new experiences.
Living in the dorms, these students experience the rhythm of campus life firsthand—late-night study sessions (hopefully!), cafeteria food adventures, and the inevitable bonding that comes with sharing a living space. “It was definitely different from living at home,” Caydance laughs, “But in a good way! I learned how to be more independent and responsible for myself.”
Beyond Textbooks and Tests: A World of Possibilities
While academics are a core part of the Summer Academy, Upward Bound believes in a well-rounded approach to education. The program goes beyond the traditional classroom setting, offering a vibrant mix of academic and extracurricular activities designed to ignite curiosity and foster personal growth.
Hitting the Books: From Core Subjects to Cool Electives
Mornings at the Summer Academy are dedicated to sharpening those essential academic skills. Students attend classes in core subjects like English, math, and science, receiving individualized attention and support from experienced educators passionate about their success.
But the real fun begins with the electives! From virtual reality to human geography, physical education to robotics, and even theatre, there’s something to pique the interest of every student. Imagine computer science students huddled together, not just coding, but designing a virtual escape room. Talk about bringing learning to life!
Beyond the Classroom: Fun, Friendships, and Personal Growth
Life at Upward Bound isn’t all work and no play. The program understands the importance of balance, providing ample opportunities for students to unwind, socialize, and explore their interests outside the classroom.
Whether it’s a competitive game of bowling, a refreshing dip in the pool, or a movie night with newfound friends, there’s never a dull moment. The program also organizes cultural and social events, allowing students to broaden their horizons and connect with their peers on a deeper level.
A Helping Hand: The Upward Bound Support System
Navigating the transition from high school to college, or even just figuring out life as a teenager, can be a wild ride. Upward Bound gets that. That’s why they’ve created a support system that goes beyond academic tutoring—they’re there for the students, every step of the way.
One of the biggest advantages of Upward Bound is the constant presence of supportive staff members who genuinely care about the students’ well-being. “We’re not just here to teach them algebra or grammar,” says Jill Hendricks, the powerhouse who’s been directing ATU’s Upward Bound programs for almost two decades. “We want them to grow as individuals, develop their confidence, and realize their full potential.”
And it’s not just Jill; the entire Upward Bound team is committed to creating a nurturing and empowering environment for these students. Target school liaisons like Shawna Davis, Annie McNeely, and Lauren Pipkin work closely with students, providing personalized guidance and encouragement. Whether a student is struggling with a tough concept in calculus or just needs someone to talk to, the Upward Bound staff is there, 24/7, ready to listen and offer support.
From Doubts to Diplomas: Upward Bound Success Stories
The impact of Upward Bound is best reflected in the journeys of its graduates. These aren’t just statistics; they’re real students whose lives have been transformed by the program. Take Caydance, for instance. Remember her? The girl who initially joined for financial aid advice? Well, Upward Bound ignited a passion within her, a desire to make a real difference in the world, inspired by the stories of women breaking barriers in STEM fields.
Today, Caydance is well on her way to achieving her dreams. She’s currently rocking an associate degree from UA Community College at Morrilton and has her sights set on something even bigger—a mechanical engineering degree from ATU, which she plans to start in the spring of 2025. And to think, it all started with Upward Bound.
Then there’s Ja’Riya Foster. Before Upward Bound, she struggled with social interactions and found it hard to focus in class. The program helped her come out of her shell, improve her attentiveness, and even sparked an interest in forensic science. For Ja’Riya, the best part was the dorm life and the unwavering support of the teachers, who always went the extra mile to help her succeed.
Jamey Alcocer, another Upward Bound alum, credits the program with boosting her confidence and communication skills. “Before, I was terrified of public speaking,” she confesses. “But Upward Bound pushed me out of my comfort zone. I learned how to articulate my ideas, present my work confidently, and even solve problems more effectively.” Inspired by her parents’ hard work and dedication, Jamey is determined to build a successful career and life, and she knows Upward Bound has given her the tools to do just that.
And let’s not forget Krista Atkins, who found more than just academic support in Upward Bound; she found a second family. Surrounded by like-minded peers, she formed strong friendships that continue to this day. “The best part about Upward Bound is that it’s not just about studying all the time,” Krista shares. “We had so much fun together, but we also knew we were preparing for our futures.” Krista’s dream is to become a physical therapist assistant, a goal she feels confident in pursuing thanks to the solid foundation Upward Bound provided.
Opening Doors: Who is Upward Bound For?
You might be thinking, “This Upward Bound thing sounds amazing! But is it for me?” Well, if you’re a high school student in Arkansas with big dreams and a hunger for knowledge, chances are, Upward Bound is right up your alley.
The program is specifically designed for students who meet income guidelines set by the federal government. They’re all about providing equal opportunities for higher education, regardless of a student’s financial background. Plus, if you’re a potential first-generation college student, meaning neither of your parents graduated from a four-year college, Upward Bound is especially keen on having you on board.
ATU’s Upward Bound programs cast a wide net, serving students from various high schools across the region. Their Classic program caters to students from Atkins, Dover, Hector, Johnson County Westside, and Lamar high schools. Meanwhile, their Math and Science program focuses on nurturing budding STEM enthusiasts from Danville, Dardanelle, Two Rivers, Western Yell County, and Wonderview high schools.
Beyond Summer: The Upward Bound Journey Continues
Think the fun ends when summer’s over? Think again! Upward Bound is committed to supporting its students year-round. They offer various academic enrichment activities throughout the year, ensuring those skills stay sharp and those brains stay engaged.
And for the cream of the crop, the top 15 students from each program get to embark on an unforgettable journey—a learning and cultural immersion trip to none other than the Windy City itself, Chicago, Illinois. Talk about ending the year on a high note!