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Our Program
Upward Bound is an early intervention program that effectively assists students in grades 9-12 who have “college potential” but often do not recognize or understand their academic and career options beyond high school. We identify, recruit, and help first-generation youth with financial needs to prepare for higher education. The program’s objective is to holistically motivate and provide students with the comprehensive skillset needed to obtain a college degree.
Students receive academic services throughout the academic year, mostly on Saturdays. During those Saturdays, the primary academic service offered is supplemental instruction to further enhance the understanding of the concepts learned in school. Saturday classes operate from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on LSU’s campus.
Our Philosophy
The Upward Bound Program aims to create positive learning opportunities tailored to meet the unique academic, cultural, social, and vocational needs of each participant. Our primary responsibility is to create an environment that fosters intellectual, physical, and emotional growth that would provide students the extra push to complete their secondary education and pursue a post-secondary degree.
We accomplish this by offering a variety of engaging and meaningful activities that challenge each participant to reach their full potential.
Academic Year Opportunities
LSU Upward Bound thanks you for your interest! We rely on dedicated volunteers and staff members to help ensure the success of student participants. The program offers a variety of roles, including yearly work and volunteer opportunities for those willing to lend a helping hand in ensuring the well-being for all students involved. Our goal, with your help, is to enhance the experience of each family at Upward Bound House.
Work
Instructors are paid according to education and experience, with a maximum of $25.00/teaching hour. If you are interested in being an LSU Upward Bound instructor, please send your resume/CV with at least 3 references to: [email protected].
As an Upward Bound mentor, you’ll have the chance to help Upward Bound students grow while also improving your leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities. We’re looking for mentors who are passionate about making a positive impact on young people’s lives.
In this role, you will:
- Lead enrichment classes and join field trips.
- Assist with ACT Preparation.
- Have the opportunity to earn up to $10.00 per hour.
Complete the mentor application and send it to [email protected] via email.
As an Upward Bound tutor, your role goes beyond being a mentor.
In this role, you will:
- Help students grasp and use important concepts.
- Show enthusiasm for improving the lives of young individuals.
- Aid in ACT Preparation.
- Offer effective tutoring in your specific subject area, which includes Advanced Math, Algebra 1 & 2, Biology 1 & 2, Chemistry, English, Geometry, History, Physics, and Spanish.
- Have the opportunity to earn up to $10.00 per hour.
Complete the tutor application and send it to [email protected] via email.
Volunteer
Share your knowledge and skills by leading workshops on topics such as study skills, college prep, career exploration, and more.
Your responsibilities when Teaching Workshops will be to:
- Consider a one- to two-hour commitment at one (or more if desired) of our event.
- Exhibit passion and excitement for enriching the lives of young people.
- Lead enrichment classes.
If you're interested in volunteering within this role, please complete the interest form, and a team member will contract you.
Provide support and advice to students as they navigate high school and prepare for college. Inspire the next generation by becoming a superb role model, all while gaining valuable experience in program management and organization.
Your responsibilities as a Mentor will be to:
- Consider a one- to two-hour commitment at one (or more if desired).
- Provide office assistance by supporting Upward Bound staff with essential administrative tasks.
- Assist in set-up and implementing events, trips, and activities that enrich the Upward Bound experience for students.
- Assist students with understanding and applying key concepts.
- Exhibit passion and excitement for enriching the lives of young people while serving as mentors.
- Lead enrichment classes and attend field trips.
If you're interested in volunteering within this role, please complete the interest form, and a team member will contract you.
Your responsibilities as a Tutor will be to:
- Consider a two-hour commitment per week to provide academic and social support to East Baton Rouge Parish School System (EBRPSS) and Terrebonne Parish School District (TPSD) students during the academic year.
- Provide effective high school level tutoring in your particular subject area (Advanced Math, Algebra 1 & 2, Biology 1 & 2, Chemistry, English, Geometry, History, Physics, and Spanish).
- Assist with ACT Preparation.
If you're interested in volunteering within this role, please complete the interest form, and a team member will contract you.
2025 Summer Work Opportunities
As summer rapidly approaches, the Upward Bound Program is offering summer work opportunities, such as Instructor, Mentorship, and Resident Assistant (RA) positions. We thank you for your interest and hope that you can find a post that fits you best. Your responsibilities will vary depending on the role you elect, and training for each position will be announced Summer 2025.
- Instructors will design and deliver innovative lessons to support students from 9th – 12th grade in their academic and/or elective subjects.
- Mentors will supervise students outside of class, during activities, and ensure safety for students at all times. There are three available options for Mentor positions:
2025 Mentor LSU Upward Bound Form
- Resident Assistants will supervise activities, direct evening procedures, and ensure the safety of students who live in residence hall during the program(s). There are three available options for RA positions: