Mission Statement:

Rollins Upward Bound inspires Central Florida Students to exceed expectations through academic advisement, mentoring and leadership. Our goal is to close the achievement gap in our educational system and make college accessible to students who otherwise would not be given the opportunity. 

What is Upward Bound?

The Rollins College Upward Bound program is a year-round program for motivated students with academic potential who desire additional academic preparation, advisement, and encouragement to succeed in high school and later, in college. Because Upward Bound is a federally funded TRiO program, there is no cost to participate. Eligible students must be either low income, as defined by federal guidelines, or the first generation in their household to attain a four-year college degree. Please see our application page for full details.

Why Upward Bound?

• Your grades will improve if you actively participate in the program.
• You'll be introduced to key personnel at a number of colleges, universities and local businesses.
• Participation signifies your dedication to attending and succeeding in college.
• Participation provides an invaluable opportunity to polish your academic skills and learn new ones.
• Experience the fun and flexibility of college life during the six-week summer program.
• You will not have to pay to apply to colleges, or to take the SAT and ACT tests.
• It's free, and there's a stipend for full participation.

Testimonials

Well, Upward Bound means hope to me. Before I became a part of this program I just said that I wanted to go to collge. My grades were not college ready and my mind set was about life was not college ready. If it wasn't for Upward  Bound I would be very unprepared for life after high school. So to me, Upward Bound means hope and chance...

--12th grader-Wekiva High School

Becoming an Upward Bound student, though it isn't always easy getting up on Saturdays, has been very rewarding. It has helped prepare me for the up and coming  school year but not only that, it has given me time with tutors during the school year to help me out with things I have found most difficult. To say that it is a "good" program for other students striving for success, wouldn't correctly put the reqards of being an Upward Bound student. Although some of us take it for granted at times, it is a highly helpful resource or college and an advantage for those looking to get ahead. Nothing can replace an experience like this which is most beneficial.

--12th grader - Evans High School

 To be honest, I think I can say that I didn't choose the Upward  Bound program. I feel that the Upward Bound program chose me. I had the slightest idea what Upward Bound program was until my teacher brought it to my attention. She lead me to this admirable program that I belive is going to lead me to a promising future. Upward Bound has uncovered careers that I never heard of that are of my interest. The motivation that the counselors, teachers, and tutors bring is impeccable!

--12th grader - Wekiva High School

There are too many words and not enough meanings to describe what Upward Bound has done for me. I rememmber when I first started this program I was a little shy boy, who really didn't know much about UB but I hung on and found what it was about. To be honest my first impression when I walked into the building early in the morning was, "What have I got myself into??" But as time progressed, my associates became my friends and my friends became my brothers and sisters, and my brothers and sisters formed an ever-lasting bond.... We have some of the best teachers and tutors and RA's who put their lives on hold for a bunch of high schoolers. So I want to applaud all the people who put their hard work in this program. Thank you. 

--11th grader- Evans High School

Upward Bound has changed my life and the person I have become today. Coming into the program four years ago as in incoming freshman I would have never expected the Upward Bound to help me as much as they have. The Upward Bound program has impacted my life most in my education and has helped me greatly improve in school. 

--12th grader - Wekiva High School

Visits since January 1, 2010