Upward Bound
Upward Bound offers programs that prepare qualified students for college entrance and academic success. The student-centered curriculum meets the academic needs of each participant to ensure a meaningful college and career opportunities. Greater Success 4 U and EXCEL Upward Bound Programs increase rates of enrollment in and graduation from colleges and universities. Participants in Upward Bound are four times more likely to earn an undergraduate degree than non-participants from similar backgrounds.
Academic Year Program
Participating students receive tutorial support focusing on academics, career development, and cultural activities during the school year at Saturday sessions conducted at GSU or in the surrounding communities. They also receive assistance with study skills, test preparation, writing proficiency, and time management as well as information related to arts & humanities, science & technology, and business & commerce.
Summer Program
During summer sessions, students attend classes at Governors State University for
- instruction in mathematics, laboratory science, composition, literature, and foreign language
- tutoring in specific areas of academic need
- a host of cultural enrichment programs and performances
Eligibility Criteria
- be first generation college bound and /or low income (as determined by the U.S Department of Education guidelines)
- have completed the eighth grade but not yet completed the eleventh grade and be between the ages of 13-19
- have a cumulative grade point average of 2.3 or better
- attend District 206: Bloom High School & Bloom Trail High School - Chicago Heights, IL; District 227: Rich South High School - Richton Park, IL & Rich East High School- Park Forest, IL; or District 201U: Crete Monee High School – Crete, IL
Contacts
Greater Success 4 U - Upward Bound (GS4U)
Assistant Director - Al Haskins
Governors State University
Room A2109
University Park, IL 60484
708.534.6972
a-haskins@govst.edu
Excellence in Career, Education & Leadership Upward Bound (EXCEL)
Assistant Director – Sharon Spence
Governors State University
Room A2122
University Park, IL 60466
708.235.2206
s-spence@govst.edu
