Frequently Asked Questions
• How soon after I apply will I know if I’ve been accepted?
Your interview will usually take place within two weeks of us receiving your application. Please take into account that certain things may inhibit that time frame, such as holidays. You should receive a letter indicating whether or not you have been accepted into the program within two weeks after your interview.
• How much time will I have to devote to being a UB student?
Being in Upward Bound (UB) does entail quite a bit of commitment on each student’s part. As a UB student, you will be expected to meet with your UB counselor twice a month at your high school, attend one Saturday activity per month (September-May) usually on WKU’s campus, and attend a six week residential summer program. In order to benefit from the UB program, a student must participate as fully as possible in activities. Once a student is accepted as a ninth or tenth grader, he/she can remain in UB through high school graduation unless the student opts to leave the program or is dismissed from the program for disciplinary reasons or lack of participation.
• I need to attend church camp/basketball camp/FFA camp/band camp during the summer program weeks. What should I do?
Upward Bound is a 12-month program but the “meat” of the activities and services are offered in the six week summer program. It is vital that students attend as much of each summer program as they can. However, we understand students have other school activities and personal pursuits that are important also. We will allow a student to be absent during the summer for one week but class work must be made up to each instructor’s satisfaction. If you are going to be absent from the summer program, you must let your UB counselor know in advance.
• Who will be my roommate?
Students can choose another UB’er they know or will be randomly placed with a roommate.
• Can my parents/friends visit?
Parents are welcome to visit at any time and can take you off campus for a meal, a mall outing, etc. if they so choose. Friends can visit during free time or can meet you at off-campus activities such as the movie theater. You cannot leave campus with anyone but your parents or UB staff.
• What classes will I take in the summer?
Students will take English, math, science, reading/literature, and a foreign language. The math you take is dependent upon which math courses you have already had in school. You will be placed in your classes by the UB staff.
• What happens if I find out UB just isn’t for me?
After participating in the program for a period of time, some students do find that UB takes too much of their time or their interests change and UB is not a priority to them anymore. UB is a voluntary program so a student may opt out at any time. Naturally we want every student to remain in the program through high school graduation and bridge and we encourage our students to do so.
