Program Overview

Introduction to the TRIO Upward Bound Program

The TRIO Upward Bound Program at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is designed to increase college entrance and completion rates among the community's youth and inspire them to become responsible community leaders and contributors.

Program Mission and Goals

The mission of the program is to instill academic skills, motivation, and college readiness in its participants. The program focuses on the importance of the "five wells": being WELL read, WELL spoken, WELL traveled, WELL dressed, and WELL balanced. The ultimate goal is to get high school students into college, either a 2-year or 4-year school.

Program Details

The TRIO Upward Bound Program is a federal program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The program serves Marshall High School, Yellow Medicine East High School, and Worthington High School, grades 9-12. Participants receive academic tutoring in all core subject areas, including:

• Math
• Science
• English
• Literature They also have opportunities to take part in:
  • College visits
  • Environmental learning
  • Cultural enrichment
  • Career exploration

Summer Program

In the summer, the program offers a 6-week session at SMSU, where students attend summer classes Monday through Friday and participate in planned trips to:

• Colleges
• Museums
• Environmental centers
• Other destinations that offer educational and cultural experiences

Program Objectives

The program strives to assist underrepresented students in postsecondary education and offer them positive academic and cultural experiences that encourage the continuation of education beyond high school. The program aims to help students achieve their dreams and succeed in all they wish to do.

Program Staff

The Upward Bound staff at SMSU have a passion for working with new generations of students and watching them thrive as they continue their participation in the TRIO Upward Bound Program.