Will I fit in?
If you want to go to college, but don't really know all the steps it'll take to get there, then Upward Bound is for you. Our current students don't have all the answers either, but they know enough to ask questions in order to get the right answers. Also, if your grades are good, but can be better, or if they're great but you want a challenge, then you're in the right place.

Plus, our student body is a pretty open, welcoming group of young people. Unlike in the high schools, where cliques exist and certain students get singled out for being "different" or "nerdy" or "uncool," Upward Bound students vehemently refrain from that type of labeling. They realize they're all working toward the same goal, they support each other and help each other. That's not to say they all get along 100% of the time, but they do adhere to what we refer to as The STAR Policy. STAR, which stands for Setting the Tone for an Atmosphere of Respect, means that all students, faculty and staff are worthy of respect. In short, no one disses anyone else, their ideals, dreams, likes or dislikes.

What kinds of classes can I take at Upward Bound?
Upward Bound offers students the opportunity to enroll in classes usually not offered by their home high schools. In the past, we've offered classes similar to those offered in college such as archeology, drama, photography, contemporary poetry, speech, entomology, math modeling, marine science, cultural geography, and film study.

If you find you have academic areas where you need a little extra assistance, you can enroll in supplemental courses in English and Math that can help you raise your test scores and polish your skills.

What kinds of extracurricular opportunities are available in the summer?
Summer extracurriculars vary depending upon students' needs and interests but in the past, we've offered opportunities run track, use ESU's weight room and pool, participate in tournaments in pool or ping pong, create a literary magazine, sing in the Upward Bound choir, or act in the Upward Bound drama ensemble. If you're into board games or movies, whitewater rafting or hiking, basketball or soccer, books and art, you'll have an opportunity to share or explore your interests with others.

If I enroll in East Stroudsburg University Project Upward Bound, does this mean I have to attend East Stroudsburg University once I graduate from high school?
No, not at all. While a number of our students do chose to attend ESU, it's certainly not a requirement.

Will East Stroudsburg University Project Upward Bound pay for me to go to college?
While we'd love to be able to finance all of our students' education, our funds aren't that plentiful. What we will do is assist you in applying for financial aid and in searching for scholarships. Plus, East Stroudsburg University Project Upward Bound awards a few graduating seniors scholarships as well, due in part to the generosity of the University and several outside donors. Finally, East Stroudsburg University Project Upward Bound graduates enroll in East Stroudsburg University summer courses and earn up to six credits free of charge. These credits can then be transferred to the student's college of choice, enabling him or her to be ahead of his or her peers in regard to college credit hours.

Who teaches the Upward Bound classes?
Upward Bound classes and seminars are instructed by certified high school teachers and college professors. Their expectations are high, but attainable, and they're always available to assist students with both Upward Bound work and homework or projects from the student's high school.

During the summer, who stays in the dorms with the Upward Bound students?
Six Resident Advisors (RA's) and a Resident Director man the dorm. The residential staff enforce the rules and keep an eye on the students, and also plan evening activities. They are basically "on call" at all times.

What does participation in East Stroudsburg University Project Upward Bound cost?
There's no monetary cost to participate in Upward Bound, it's free. The only investment is one of time, commitment, and dedication.