ETSU Upward Bound accepting applications

JOHNSON CITY (March 4, 2021) – Students in ninth or 10th grade at one of 14 area high schools who are interested in achieving their dream of attending and graduating from college may be eligible to apply for the Upward Bound program at East Tennessee State University.

Upward Bound is one of seven federally funded TRIO programs at ETSU targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities. Activities are provided at no cost. High school students who enroll in Upward Bound are four times more likely to earn an undergraduate degree than students from similar backgrounds who do not participate. 

During the school year, Upward Bound advisors visit schools to meet with students weekly. In addition to cultural and educational activities throughout the year, students also attend monthly meetings at ETSU. Upward Bound provides workshops on financial aid, scholarship information, ACT preparation and career planning. During the summer, students may participate in a six-week residential program at ETSU and attend classes in a variety of subjects. Seniors may enroll in up to two college courses with tuition, books and supplies provided. For summer 2021, some in-person programming may be available as well as virtual opportunities.

ETSU’s Upward Bound program serves 14 area high schools including all county high schools in Carter, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Johnson counties, as well Science Hill, Dobyns-Bennett, Tennessee, and Elizabethton high schools. Students must meet one of two eligibility requirements: family income must meet federal guidelines and/or neither parent has obtained a four-year degree from a college or university. Students may enroll during ninth or 10th grade and remain in the program until they start college. The program’s goal is to create a community where students feel encouraged and motivated and receive the tools necessary to achieve their dream of attending college. 

“I have seen first-hand that Upward Bound has a significant impact on students in our region and prepares them for success after high school,” said Dr. Ronnie Gross, executive director of TRIO Programs at ETSU. “The last year has been very difficult for high school students and we look forward to welcoming new students and helping them stay on track and reach their goals for the future.”

ETSU’s Upward Bound program is accepting applications for new students through Friday, March 19. The online application and more information are available at etsu.edu/ub. For questions, contact 423-439-5619 or etsuubstaff@gmail.com.