You’re not well off. Your family didn’t go to college. But perhaps you should. Thinking about college, preparing, getting in, and doing well can be harder if it’s unfamiliar territory.
Upward Bound can help.

At Telstar, talk to Chyanna Millett-Cordwell, if she’s not already talked with you. Being nominated for Upward Bound is a good start, an ego boost: a knowledgeable teacher or counselor thinks you’ve got what it takes. You can join up as a sophomore to reap the most complete benefits.

High school offers, and colleges expect, the knowledge that will get you admitted (including knowing how to pay for it) and the habits and skills that will get you through successfully. UB helps you put all this together. And it’s free.

Free, as Abby Waceken of University of Maine at Farmington emphasizes, in several ways. Free advising and tutoring, free college applications. There’s even a stipend (cash) for attending meetings. Free summer program, living and working at Farmington. Perhaps best of all, free to have opinions or admit ignorance; no put-downs here.

During the school year, UB helps you do well: regular meetings with other program members and staff; sharing information and ideas; knowing you’re not alone. Advice on college admissions and test preparation. (UB is run by UM Farmington, but you needn’t go there.) They’ll help you fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid, look for scholarships, etc.

In summer the program gets intense. You spend weeks residing on campus at Farmington. Classes are important. Math: custom-tailored to prepare you for next year’s high school course. Science: the real-life kind, with labs and field trips. English: reading, writing, and thinking; absolute fundamentals.

Foreign language: an introduction to conversation and culture. Careers: a seminar, and work experience (paid), or opportunities to volunteer; either way, a chance to get references recognizing your work (useful for admission, scholarships, jobs…)

Classes aren’t everything in college. The summer program includes Farmington I.D. with all its privileges: gym, swim, library (air-conditioned), etc. And time to try the things that make college fun, and broaden your experience: arts, movies, theatre, games; time to make and talk with new friends, quiet time to think and study.

David R Jones enjoyed college, and likes to see others doing so.