The Upward Bound program is within the office College of Access Initiative and is part of University Outreach and Engagement and has been part of the MSU community for over 56 years. Upward Bound motivates talented first-generation potential college students from mostly low-income families from Sexton, Eastern, and Everett High Schools to complete high school and enter a post-secondary educational institution. [MSU Equal Employment Opportunity Statement] All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status. The program identifies students in the Lansing area and assists them in developing the academic and social skills necessary for matriculation in post-secondary education. The program, in all its aspects, operates to promote the pursuit of excellence, self-esteem, and knowledge. Students attend one afternoon session most weeks during the school year on MSU’s campus to receive academic tutoring, mentoring, grade advising, life skills coaching, special speakers, career coaching, and more. Students also spend four weeks each summer on MSU’s campus taking academic courses for high school credit, experience a one-week residential on-campus living program, enhanced academic enrichment opportunities, service-learning outreach, cultural experiences, a week-long out-of-state study trip, and many other opportunities. Upward Bound serves over 130 students each year and during its existence has helped graduate over 4,500 students.