Each Spring, newly accepted Upward Bound scholars and their families join current UB students at the annual Upward Bound Orientation. Graduating seniors are recognized, and grade-specific information is shared with the students. This year, Appalachian College Advising Corps advisers led academic planning sessions and collaborated with the Upward Bound team to provide college access resources to those in attendance.
Morgan Teague, Keyara McKinney, Milena Buchanan, and Gabby Galvan presented to current 12th grade students and their parents about finalizing college enrollment and the transition to college. They covered topics like next steps, how to make textbooks more affordable, understanding a financial aid package, how to create an on-campus support system, tips on figuring out a major, packing lists, and more.
AppCAC Adviser Gabby Galvan says, "The collaboration between College Advising Corps and Upward Bound infused vitality and hope into the lives of all participants . Engaging with students and families of varied backgrounds paralleled the interactions I cherish with my own students. Seeing the spark, curiosity, and connections among the students was pure joy. I sincerely enjoyed seeing our programs unite for the purpose of steering students towards their dreams. It keeps me smiling."
Another group, Lorena Calvillo, Alex Ramirez Tinoco, and Geneva Watson, presented to 11th grade families about what to expect during their child's senior year. Several advisers also provided Spanish interpretation support during the event as well.
"One of my favorite parts of the day was when we got to watch the graduation ceremony for the UB seniors. We got to learn a little bit about them and where they are going and watch them receive their graduation cord on stage. I loved seeing their personalities shine through and hearing about how much they enjoyed their time with Upward Bound," says AppCAC Adviser Morgan Teague.
UB seniors are honored with graduation cords at this month's orientation ceremony.
UB and CAC Collaborate at Orientation
UB and CAC Collaborate at Orientation