Upward Bound students learn about career possibilities through special career days, visits to companies and job sites and individual career counseling. To build the social confidence needed for a successful college experience, students participate in group dynamic classes and attend theatrical performances, concerts, lectures, and films. Upward Bound students also participate in conferences and exchanges with other students and receive waivers of application and test-taking fees as well as stipends and paid transportation. Summer employment opportunities are available through the program. Upward Bound students must meet federal financial eligibility guidelines, demonstrate academic potential, and be recommended by their teachers, guidance counselors and principals in order to participate.

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The Mission of Youth College programs is to encourage and assist people who are traditional under-represented in post-secondary education because of income, family educational background, disability, or other relevant federal, state, provincial or institutional criteria, in the preparation for entry to, and completion of post-secondary education.

Upward Bound helps young students to prepare for higher education. Participants receive instruction in literature, composition, mathematics and science on Mercer County Community College Campus after school, on Saturdays and during the summer.