WSU Upward Bound – Educational and College Enrichment Program

By Gazette-Tribune • March 10, 2014 12:45 pm
Students pose by the fountain on a tour of the University of Washington.
Submitted by Stassia Feltes and Desirae Coe
WSU Upward Bound Program Coordinators

Currently in Okanogan County there are two WSU Upward Bound programs, the first, which has been serving the Omak and Okanogan high schools for ten years and the newest program, serving a maximum of 60 students from Tonasket and Oroville high schools.

WSU Upward Bound is an educational and college enrichment program funded by the U.S. Department of Education and administered by Washington State University. The goal of WSU Upward Bound is to connect rural students from disadvantaged backgrounds to the necessary resources to increase the rate at which students graduate from high school and enroll in institutions of higher education.

The WSU Upward Bound program melds students with college and career resources along with leadership and multicultural opportunities. For example, WSU Upward Bound takes students on a four-day educational and multicultural trip to Seattle. In addition, WSU Upward Bound provides a six-week summer program that exposes students to hands on science, language/culture, outdoor adventures, career exploration, and includes two residential college experiences.

Last summer, students stayed at the North Cascades Institute and were mentored by Western Washington University graduate students. WSU Upward Bound also provides internship opportunities, such as the Bridge internship. This paid internship, through the USDA Agricultural Research Services at Washington State University, provides an opportunity for graduated seniors in the program to work in science labs with scientists from all over the world. After completion, students receive a 400-level college credit in science that is transferable to the college of their choice.

Furthermore, WSU Upward Bound provides students with regular one-on-one support, academic advising, tutoring, and college and career based lessons. WSU Upward Bound is an inspiring program that enriches the northern Okanogan County high schools, guiding participants on their path to success.

The North Cascades Institute Summer Camp that included a tour at Western Washington University.