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Frequently Asked Questions


FAQ

 

How much does Upward Bound cost?

Upward Bound is free to participants and their families. For overnight activities only, UB staff will sometimes require students to turn in a small deposit to ensure students are serious about attending the activity. This deposit is returned to the student/parent on the day of the event.

 

What does first-generation mean?

 As it pertains to college, first-generation means that neither of your parents graduated from a four-year college.

  • Am I still considered first-generation if...?
  • My mom or dad went to WKU or another college, but dropped out before getting a degree (Yes, you are still considered first-generation)
  • My parents did not go to college, but my sibling did? (Yes, you are still considered first-generation)
  • One or more of my parents went to SKYCTC (formerly Bowling Green Tech) (Yes, you are still considered first-generation by Upward Bound)
What if I do not plan to go to WKU?

Many UB participants ultimately enroll in WKU, but our goal is to help you get into in the college that is the best fit for you, so you will be successful.

 

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. The last step of the application is an interview with students at school and phone call to parents. You should receive a letter indicating whether or not you have been accepted into the program within two weeks after your interview. Admissions decisions for freshman applicants will not be made until after first nine weeks report cards are issued.

 

 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 three times 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, 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, failing to maintain the minimum required GPA, or insufficient participation.

 

How do I get to WKU for Saturday Activities?

Upward Bound provides transportation to and from your home county for Saturday Sessions. Families are responsible for getting their student to the designated pickup spot (generally the student’s high school). Pickup and drop off location and times are specified on event itineraries.

 

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 three times 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, 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, failing to maintain the minimum required GPA, or lack of participation.

 

Can I choose my roommate for the summer program?

Roommates will be assigned by the Upward Bound Staff.  Only Bridge students (graduating seniors) can choose their roommate.  

 

Can my parents/friends visit during the summer pre-college program?

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 cannot visit you while you are participating in the summer pre-college program.  You cannot leave campus with anyone but your parents or UB staff.  Bridge students must abide by residence hall visitation rules.

 

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.


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 Last Modified 12/7/18