Students with dreams of attending college can count on a helping hand from the Upward Bound program at Laredo Community College.
The college prep program is currently seeking eighth-, ninth- and tenth-grade students to join this free and exciting learning experience. Applications can be submitted to the LCC Upward Bound program, April 11 to May 10, Monday through Thursday, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Lerma-Peña Learning Center, room 120.
The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, is for first generation college students whose parents do not hold a four-year college degree. Students may also qualify if they come from an economically-disadvantaged family.
Upward Bound strives to improve the students’ academic skills in English, math, and reading to succeed in post-secondary education. Students also learn about financial aid, scholarships and how to apply for college admission. Additionally, they are exposed to college life through field trips to higher education institutions.
The year-round program consists of three components. During the summer, students participate in intensive academic instruction, an educational/cultural field trip and recreational activities. In fall and spring, Upward Bound offers Saturday meetings, after-school tutoring, cultural field trips, an academic competition, social and career awareness events, and persona/group counseling. The final component, entitled “Bridge,” allows students the opportunity to taste college life by providing scholarships for six college credit hours during the first summer session after high school graduation. The “Bridge” students also enter the business world by participating in a work-study program that attempts to match them to their career choice.
The LCC Upward Bound program is open to LISD and UISD students in the eighth-, ninth-, and tenth-grades. Applications are accepted along with the parents’ most recent income tax return (1040) and utility bill, and the student’s birth certificate, social security card and his/her most recent report card with official transcript.
For more information, call Upward Bound Director Gerardo Martinez by calling 721-5238 or 721-5240.
Office of Marketing and Public Information
West End Washington St.
Laredo, TX 78040-4395
956- 721-5140
Fax 956-721-5443