Upward Bound Program

The Alvin Community College Upward Bound program is a year-round program for motivated Alvin High School students with academic potential who want to go to college.

The program offers academic tutoring, advising, assistance in obtaining financial aid, on-campus summer camp, local and out-of-town field trips, and ACT/SAT preparation. If you meet certain academic requirements you may be eligible for a monthly stipend.

Because Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program, there is no cost to participate. Upward Bound has helped thousands of students succeed since it began in 1966. In fact, since 1995, 100 percent of Upward Bound graduates have gone on to colleges and universities, both close to home and across the nation. The Alvin Community College Upward Bound Program opened in 2003.

Benefits of Upward Bound

• Your grades will likely improve if you actively participate in the program.
• You’ll be introduced to key personnel at a number of local businesses, colleges and universities.
• You’ll have the opportunity to polish your academic skills and learn new ones.
• You’ll enjoy the fun and flexibility of college life during the six-week summer program.
• You’ll be prepared to succeed in college.
• If you meet certain academic criteria, you may be eligible for a monthly stipend.
• If you are interested in Upward Bound, ask your high school counselor for an application, or call the Alvin Community College at 281-756-3849.

Qualifications

Alvin High School students in grades 9, 10, and 11 may apply. If your family meets the low income criteria established by the U.S. Government or if neither of your parents has a 4-year college degree, then you have met the basic qualifications. Selection is also based on teacher recommendations, test scores, grades, and a personal interview.

Upward Bound Activities

Upward Bound is divided into academic and summer components. During the school year participants attend one Saturday academy per month at Alvin Community College, where they receive academic assistance and advising, along with the opportunity to participate in field trips, learn new computer skills, and enjoy the ACC facilities.

Participants also meet weekly with a tutor, and quarterly with an advisor. These sessions are tailored to meet your individual needs. During the summer session, participants attend a six week session which introduces them to the fun and flexibility of college life. Some days you may find yourselves out in the field, talking to experts at local businesses; others days, you will be behind your desk in the morning, then tackle cutting-edge computer skills in the afternoon; still others, you will be on the bus headed off to nearby universities to meet with key personnel.

How to Know if You Should Apply

Apply if…..
• you would like to go to college, but don’t quite make the grades or test scores you need?
• you would like to know more about the jobs of tomorrow, but don’t know how to find out?
• you would like to pursue a degree, but don’t know which courses you should be taking right now?

Do Not apply if…..
• you are heavily involved in sports and after school activities or cannot commit to attending ALL Upward Bound activities.
• do not have the support of your family in your decision to continue your education.
• do not want to go to college.

How to Apply

If you are interested in Upward Bound, complete the application, or call Alvin Community College at 281.756.3849.

Contact Information

Upward Bound
Building A, Room 218 (inside Library)
Phone: 281.756.3849
Fax: 281.756.3854
Email: upwardbound@alvincollege.edu