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As a federally funded TRIO program, the Upward Bound Math/Science
program was created to assist high school students who come
from a low-income family (as defined by federal guidelines)
and/or who have parents/guardians who have not received a
four-year college degree. To see if your family qualifies
as low income, go to: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/trio/incomelevels.html.
Students attending the following target high schools in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grades are eligible to apply: DELAWARE--Christiana, Dover, McKean, Seaford, Smyrna, Sussex Central; MARYLAND--Elkton, North East. A participant
must successfully have completed Algebra I or its equivalent
prior to the start of the summer program. The student also must be a permanent resident of the United States.
For our program to be effective, it is important that students
and their families make a strong commitment to the student’s
full participation in the program. They are required to agree
to and sign a contract and adhere to bottom-line rules that
will contribute to their success as members of the UBMS community.
Our program is designed to enhance students’ academic
skills, social interactions and desire to succeed in school,
within the structure of a close-knit community. We believe
that one of the most important aspects of success is having
someone believe in you and support you while you set and achieve
goals and follow your dreams. And so, while students are building
up study skills in challenging classes, they are also becoming
a part of a community of mutual support: students, resident
and academic staff all join together to pursue common goals.
The academic classes our participants take during the summer
program are designed to give them a head start on the coming
year so that they will be better prepared and more successful
in school. The classes include intensive instruction in mathematics
and science, including hands-on experience in laboratories
and at field sites and computer facilities. Additionally,
the summer program is designed to simulate a college-going
experience and give students exposure to cultural events,
academic programs and other educational activities.
During the academic year, we provide a number of college-preparatory
workshops. Among these are a study skills series, financial
aid information, preparing for the college admissions process,
exploration of college majors, career trips, and college visits.
UBMS students can also receive SAT and college application
fee waivers.
(sample daily schedule)
The goals for the UBMS summer program include increasing
students’ academic skills, social interactions and desire
to succeed in school, within the structure of a close-knit
community. Town Council meetings help strengthen our community-building:
each day begins with this gathering of students, residential
staff, and administrative staff. This time is used to pass
on program information, to deal with community concerns, and
to share successes.
Classroom assignment is made by staff review of the student’s
high school transcript and use of an interest survey. Students
have daily classes in English, Latin, math, and science. Class
size is small and taught by an experienced teacher who is
assisted by a resident assistant (RA)/tutor—each student
receives a great deal of attention. RA/tutors facilitate evening
study hours as well as being present during classes. As experienced
college students, RA/tutors have insight into the personal
and academic challenges our participants face.
There are weekly stipend meetings, where students receive
up to $15 a week. This is an opportunity for students to discuss
their progress individually with administrative staff members.
During the academic year, we provide a number of workshops
that reinforce our work with participants in preparing for
college. Among these are our study skills series, workshops
on finding financial aid, the college admissions process,
math and science majors, career trips, and college visits.
We hold one to two workshops each month, and one to two college
tours are offered each semester. All meals, admission costs
and transportation are covered by the program. For workshops
or events where seating is limited, students are served on
a first come-first served basis. All others are placed on
a waiting list should a spot open up.
UBMS also provides cultural and fun activities during the
academic year, designed to broaden our participants’
horizons. Recent activities include attending a UD football
game, holiday trips to Longwood Gardens and New York City,
Philadanco and Naturally Seven.
The UBMS program also issues a newsletter containing
college-going and financial aid information, study skills
advice and updates on our students and program activities.
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