Upward Bound Program Offers Lifeline for College-Bound Students Amid Funding Challenges
EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. — High school students from Monroe County and the Lehigh Valley are seizing the opportunity to gain a competitive edge in their college preparation through the Upward Bound program at East Stroudsburg University. This initiative is part of the federal TRIO programs aimed specifically at supporting low-income and first-generation college applicants.
For many participants, including Program Director Janine Hyde-Broderick, the impact of Upward Bound is deeply personal. Having once been a beneficiary of a similar program at Wilkes University, Hyde-Broderick attests, “If it hadn’t been for Upward Bound, I always tell my students, without UB there’d be no HB,” referring to her initials and emphasizing the program’s transformative role in her life. “It literally saved my life,” she added, expressing her commitment to continuing this legacy for current students.
However, the future of Upward Bound hangs in the balance as discussions surrounding federal budget cuts take center stage. Funding for the program is secured through the U.S. Department of Education, which is currently facing potential reductions as part of broader governmental changes proposed during President Donald Trump’s administration. “We are concerned that funding cuts could result in 800,000 active TRIO students losing essential program services,” said Hyde-Broderick, highlighting not only the immediate implications for rising students but also the ripple effect on the estimated six million alumni who benefited from similar initiatives.
Despite these uncertainties, the program has continued to attract students eager to prepare for college. This summer, 102 high school participants are engaging in a rigorous curriculum that includes enhancing their application essays, preparing for the SATs, and exploring financial aid opportunities. These skills are not merely academic; they empower students to navigate the complexities of the college application process, which can be overwhelming, especially for those without prior experience.
Participants have expressed the profound impact of Upward Bound on their educational journeys. Sophomore Gage Schaffer from Dieruff High School shared, “I feel like I’ve gotten a good sense of what college would be like during the summer program, and I’ve been able to get a head start on all my classes for the fall.” Similarly, Leah Geddes, a senior at East Stroudsburg High School, stated, “Before Upward Bound, I didn’t understand a thing about the college process. Now, I feel informed and prepared to apply.”
While uncertainties loom regarding funding, the enthusiasm and commitment of the students and faculty within the Upward Bound program demonstrate a hopeful outlook. They continue to focus on their education and future, reinforcing the program’s role in shaping the lives of aspiring college students. As discussions about the program’s future unfold, the testimonials from students underscore the crucial support systems that Upward Bound provides and the potentially far-reaching consequences of any funding dissolution.
