RIT Upward Bound Students Take a College Tour | March 2023
Some RIT Upward Bound students got a taste of life on a college campus when they toured University at Albany over winter break. Victor Davidson, program director with Upward Bound led the group of 19 from University Preparatory Charter School for Young Men. He says, “Students are really excited about the program due to being able to see college campuses and what they have to offer and the ability to utilize the programs we offer to become college ready.”
The campus tour included visiting different colleges and departments including the School of Engineering and several lecture halls. Davidson added, “Students saw a lecture hall that holds up to 600 students and were amazed at the size.”
Many of the University Prep students play football and enjoyed a tour of the athletic department and facilities. Another popular spot was the Student Union where they had lunch and saw different places to eat, a grocery store and campus bookstore along with a Starbucks.
Preparing students for higher education is the goal of the Upward Bound Program. Throughout the year, they take part in a variety of workshops including financial literacy, SAT review, mental health awareness, how to apply for college and secure financial aid. Davidson said this gives them the fundamental support needed to enter college and to succeed.
"Students with goals of reaching higher education, should have the opportunity regardless of barriers such as inability to afford it, or lack of resources."
Summing up the college tour? Davidson says, “The kids were very excited and thankful for the opportunity. UAlbany is a larger campus with over 25,000 students, most of them have never seen a campus that size.”
Learn more about RIT’s Upward Bound Program here