About

Upward Bound of Michigan State University is a previously federally funded program designed to help disadvantaged youths with academic potential develop and refine skills for post-secondary education.

Once a part of the Trio Programs established by the U.S. congress in accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965, the program is now funded by Michigan State University. For more than fifty years, this federally funded program has provided academic enrichment to hundreds of high school youth in the Lansing area. These students traditionally have come from low-income families and/or families in which neither parent has obtained a bachelor’s degree.

The program partners with Lansing’s Everett, Sexton, and Eastern High Schools to enroll approximately 125 Lansing area high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors so that they may develop the academic and social skills necessary for matriculation in post-secondary education. Upward Bound provides admissions, financial aid counseling, and assistance to participants to expedite their admission to college.

The Upward Bound program continues to expand opportunities for its students by offering experiences through a variety of programs focusing on cultural enrichment and personal growth. This includes study skills, workshops, cultural field trips, study abroad opportunities, college visits, career exploration, and job shadowing experiences. In addition, it also provides programs to help parents and students navigate the financial aid process.