Upward Bound at St. Mary's, hosted by St. Mary's University, is a program aimed at preparing high school students from SAISD and JISD to succeed in college. The program provides a nurturing environment on a college campus where participants can experience numerous educational advantages. Its primary goal is to increase enrollment and graduation from college among underrepresented populations. The program covers key academic areas including literature, composition, laboratory science, mathematics, foreign language, college planning, financial aid, study skills, leadership skills, music, art, and community service. The skills and knowledge gained through these areas equip students for college and ultimately their chosen careers. Upward Bound is delivered through a combination of in-person and virtual sessions. The academic sessions take place on the campus of St. Mary’s University and virtually on Saturday afternoons from October through May. During the summer, participants can participate in a six-week program from Monday through Friday, and a Summer Bridge Session after high school graduation. The program instructors are not specified, but the program emphasizes personalized instruction and guidance from teachers and staff who are adept at communicating with students. The small class sizes and quality services contribute to the program's effectiveness. To participate in Upward Bound, students must demonstrate strong potential for college work, a passionate desire to attend college until graduation, a commitment to pursue a career that requires a college degree, and an academic need for the services provided by Upward Bound. They must be enrolled in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade at a target high school served by Upward Bound upon entry to the program, and show a commitment to attend all program activities regularly throughout the year. The primary outcome of Upward Bound is that participants are four times more likely to earn an undergraduate degree than their peers from similar backgrounds who did not participate in the program. Additionally, the program helps students overcome class, social, and cultural barriers to higher education. Upon completion, participants may enroll in the college of their choice, and they continue to receive support through completion of their post-secondary education.