Students posing at St. John's

St. John’s University Upward Bound Program

Upward Bound is a federally funded US Department of Education TRIO program that supports and challenges students at Long Island City High School in their efforts to graduate and apply/gain admission to college.

Upward Bound Logo

The program is designed to help first-generation and/or low-income students by providing them with individualized learning enrichment and academic instruction, as well as mentoring, college admission and financial aid application assistance, and cultural and social activities.

Students selected to participate in Upward Bound are expected to actively engage in program events and activities. Activities take place after school, on some evenings, and during the summer. Students apply for this program in the fall of their ninth-grade year and remain in the program through their first year of college.

Program Eligibility

An applicant must be a

  • ninth grader at Long Island City High School.
  • US citizen or permanent resident.
  • potential first-generation college student (i.e., the residential parent does not have a four-year college degree) or low income according to federal guidelines.
  • student with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
  • student who wants to pursue higher education and show commitment to their studies.
  • student who demonstrates the potential for academic success and personal growth.

In the Upward Bound program, students participate in

  • cultural events, academic programs, and other educational activities.
  • activities designed to acquaint students with a wide range of career options.
  • mentoring programs involving college students and other professionals.
  • a summer college preparedness component that also includes a
    two-day residential program to simulate a college experience.

Program Application

Long Island City High School students/parents can access the application here.

About

Upward Bound is affiliated with St. John’s University’s Division of Special and Opportunity Programs. This division consists of a wide range of programs that provide academic and other supportive services for St. John’s students.

Partner High School

Long Island City High School
1430 Broadway
Long Island City, NY 11106
718-545-7095

Contact

For more information, please contact Tony Davis, Project Director, at 718-990-2532 or via email