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Pre-College Access Programs

Empowering pre-collegiate students with the academic, personal and professional skills needed to graduate high school and succeed on the post-secondary level.

120

Program Participants

9–12

Grade Students at Graham High School and Person High School

$2.87M

Funds Awarded

Program Services

Tutoring and Supplemental Instruction

Pre-College Access Program (PCAP) scholars gain access to free tutoring in a plethora of subjects after school and at bi-weekly Saturday Academy Sessions.

Academic Coaching and Counseling

PCAP staff members and PCAP mentors provide one-on-one and small-group support and guide students academically, personally and professionally.

College Prep Assistance

PCAP scholars receive assistance completing college applications, developing personal statements, completing the FAFSA and developing skills that will make them competitive applicants.

Financial Literacy Education

PCAP offers program participants the opportunity to learn about budgeting and saving, investing, credit, loans and strategies to help promote effective financial stewardship.

Standardized Test Preparation

PCAP scholars can receive both financial assistance and academic skill-building assistance to prepare for PSAT, SAT, ACT and end-of-course exams.

Students holding an Eagle Excellence sign.

College and Cultural Tours

PCAP scholars have the opportunity to visit various local, regional and national colleges to find the perfect college for them.

STEM Workshops

PCAP students can participate in workshops, summits and information sessions about various STEM careers and skill development.

Conference Travel

PCAP scholars participate in local, state and regional conferences to promote student development and peer networking.

Mentoring

PCAP provides mentors to students to help them transition into high school and into college.

Leadership Development Programs

PCAP offers programs and activities to help students develop leadership skills.

Community Service Opportunities

Students can gain community service hours for graduation, scholarships and college applications by volunteering with PCAP.

Family Nights and Workshops

Both PCAP scholars and their family members can participate in family nights to learn new skills, experience fellowship, and have fun.

One thing I love about the Upward Bound program [now called the Pre-College Access Program] is its commitment to helping first-generation and low-income students succeed in their pursuit of higher education. The program provides academic support, mentorship, and valuable resources that help students to achieve their educational and career goals. The TRIO program also allowed me to travel to different parts of the United States and gave me lots of opportunities. I’m very proud to say that I’m a former Upward Bound student.

JhNyiah Moss

Person High School

The UB program [now called the Pre-College Access Program] is amazing! From the staff, trips to new places, and even the true college experience. But the one thing I’ve enjoyed the most was meeting so many different people and making so many new friends even with the staff. This program has guided me in so many ways and has truly impacted me in and outside of school. I would recommend this program to anyone! Thank you, Upward Bound!

Gavin Caviness

Graham High School

As a parent, I love Upward Bound [now called the Pre-College Access Program] because it provides invaluable support and opportunities for my child’s academic and personal growth. Watching them thrive in a supportive environment fills me with pride and hope for their future. As the saying goes, 'With Upward Bound, the sky’s the limit for our children’s dreams.'

Ebony Carver

Upward Bound Program Parent

Read Testimonials