Cañada College Upward Bound Program

TRIO Upward Bound is a federally funded pre-college program designed to assist first-generation college students prepare for college. In partnership with Sequoia High School, our program serves students in the communities of East Palo Alto and North Fair Oaks.

The Upward Bound Program consists of Saturday workshops at Cañada College and weekly tutoring. During the summer, students participate in a six week program offering academic courses and activities on the Cañada College campus.

Our calendar provides key dates and times for Cañada College and Sequoia High School events and holidays. Our key services and expectations can be found in our student handbook.

We are still accepting applications for students who are interested in joining Upward Bound. Please download a brochure and Pre-Screening to help us determine if you are eligible for the program.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide students the necessary preparation and opportunity to enter post secondary education and promote education, diversity, and community.

For more information please contact us at:
Upward Bound, Cañada College office
Building 22 Rooms, 111 and 112
(650) 306-3332, huningm@smccd.edu
para información en Español (650) 306-3335

para información en Español (650) 306-3335

Academic Year Program

Weekly tutoring - Upward Bound tutors are available daily after school at Sequoia High School. Students receive one on one or group tutoring as well as information on how to prepare for college.
Sequoia High School
1201 Brewster Avenue, Room 306
Redwood City CA 94062-1378
(650) 369-1411

Saturday College - Students learn skills, gain insight, and receive information on all aspects of the college admissions process in a dynamic environment. Students also learn about college requirements and special programs at colleges/universities. Most importantly students gain the confidence to overcome barriers and reach for their educational goals.

Saturday College Dates:

9/17/11
10/15/11
11/19/11
12/17/11
1/21/12
2/25/12
3/17/12
4/21/12
5/19/12

Advising - Upward Bound staff regularly monitors each student’s grades and assess their extracurricular involvement. Staff members provide information and guidance on selecting rigorous courses and exploring majors.

Test preparation - Students receive information on college admissions tests such as the PSAT, SAT, ACT.

College & Career Planning - Guest speakers are invited throughout the year to share their personal stories. Guest speakers cover various topics such as overcoming challenges and exploring careers in math and science.

Summer Program

weekly field trips, including community service
College Prep Classes- explore college majors and careers
Writer’s Lab-learn about yourself and your community
College tours-get motivated

More information about the program can be found in the Student Handbook (pdf 605kb) and Summer Program flyer (pdf).

To apply students must meet the following criteria:

Be eligible through income requirements established by the US government. http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/trio/incomelevels.html

first generation to receive a four year college degree
US citizen or a permanent resident.
Grades 9-11th and attending Sequoia High School and/or reside in Redwood City or East Palo Alto at the time of applying in the program.
Selection is based on recommendations, grades, test scores, and interview.
In addition, students must demonstrate a commitment to improve academically and an interest attending college.

For more information please feel free to contact the Department of Education's website at http://www.ed.gov/programs/trioupbound/index.html .

Selection Process

Admission to the Cañada program is competitive. Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements and go through an interview process. The application process is as follows:

Submit a completed application with supplemental information-report cards and letters of recommendation
Students interview with program staff
Parents are interviewed by the Program Director
Notification of the decision

The admissions process takes about 3 weeks from the date of submission. Student Application and supplemental materials are due by the proposed deadlines, which falls on October 30th for the Academic Year and May 1st for the Summer Program. If you have additional questions about the admissions process or selection, please contact the Upward Bound Office at (650) 306-3335.

Upward Bound Application and Supplemental Materials

Application (pdf136k) including 2 essay questions signed and completed.
2 Teacher/Adult Recommendations (pdf 56k) (not a family member).
Copy of student's Social Security Card or Permanent Residency Card.
Copy of recent tax records.
Copy of recent progress report or grades.

Useful links for First Generation students:

Looking for College Info?
www.californiacolleges.edu
www.eureka.org
www.fastweb.org

Looking for Scholarships?
www.gmsp.org
www.fastweb.org
www.latinocollegedollars.org
http://www.maldef.org/leadership/scholarships/index.html
http://www.siliconvalleycf.org/content/scholarship-programs

Looking for Test Prep Information?
www.collegeboard.com
www.act.org
www.ineedapencil.com

Looking for other ways of contacting us?
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