UB Chronicle

The Upward Bound Programs at Morehead State University

April 2026 Volume 5 Issue 8

Leaving the Nest: Surviving (and Thriving) at Your First Summer Academic Program

So, you’ve signed up for a summer academic program. Maybe it’s a three-week coding intensive, a pre-med track at a big university, or an Upward Bound or Summer Bridge Program.

Right now, you’re probably feeling a mix of "I’m a grown-up, let's go!" and "Wait, who is going to do my laundry?" Being away from home for the first time is a massive milestone. It’s a "beta test" for college—all the freedom of dorm life, but with a safety net.

Here is how to handle the transition like a pro.

🎒 The "First Week" Survival Guide

The first 48 hours are usually the weirdest. You’re in a new room, sleeping on a twin-XL mattress that feels like a brick, and eating dining hall food.

The "Open Door" Rule: When you’re move-in day is over, prop your dorm door open while you’re hanging out. It’s the universal signal that says, "Hey, come say hi!"
Embrace the Awkward: Everyone is just as nervous as you are. The person who looks the coolest is probably just as worried about making friends. Be the one to ask, "Do you want to go grab dinner?"

📚 It’s Not Just "Summer School"

Academic programs are different because everyone there wants to be there. You’re finally in a room with people who share your weirdly specific obsession with astrophysics or Shakespeare.

Geek Out: This is your chance to ask the "extra" questions you’re usually too shy to ask in high school.
Build Your Network: These aren't just classmates; they are your future college roommates or colleagues. Exchange Discords or Instas.

🏠 Handling "The H-Word" (Homesickness)

It hits everyone. You’ll see a TikTok of your friends back home at a bonfire or smell a certain food, and suddenly you’ll miss your dog more than life itself.

Don't Live on FaceTime: If you spend four hours a night calling home, you’ll never actually arrive at the program. Limit home check-ins to once a day.
Bring a Piece of Home: A favorite blanket or a few photos on your desk can make a sterile dorm room feel like your "base camp."

⚖️ The Balance: Freedom vs. Responsibility

This is the first time nobody is telling you when to go to bed or making sure you finished your project.

The Danger Zone: It’s tempting to stay up until 3:00 AM every night talking in the hallways. It’s fun for two days—until you fall asleep in a $3,000 lab session.
Manage Your Own "Life Admin": You’ll have to keep track of your room key, your meal card, and your laundry.
Pro Tip: Set a "Laundry Alarm" on your phone. Nothing ruins a dorm's vibe faster than the person who leaves their wet clothes in the washer for six hours.

Why This Matters for Your Future

When you eventually fill out your college applications, you won't just talk about the "A" you got in the program. You’ll talk about how you learned to manage your time, navigate a new city, and collaborate with people from different backgrounds.

You aren't just learning a subject; you’re learning how to be you.

Riddle Me This! March Answer

It is important to check your UB email at least 2-3 per week to ensure you don't miss out on any important information, sign-ups, etc. If you need your password reset, please contact your UB Counselor for assistance.

Don't forget about your one hour (60 mins.) of tutoring each semester. You can access tutor.com using the icon above.

You also need to complete tutoring if your grade in any class falls below a C average.

Students Don't forget about your online activities that are due each semester. You can access them using the links below

Class of 2026

Class of 2027

Class of 2028

Class of 2029

The Upward Bound Programs at Morehead State University are currently accepting new student applications.

9th, 10th, or 11th grade students at the following high schools: Bath, Bracken, Boyd, East Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Harrison, Johnson Central, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Mason, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Nicholas, Paul Blazer, Robertson, Rowan, and West Carter High Schools, are eligible to apply.

Students can submit the Online Application through our recruitment site at join.moreheadub.org or students can obtain a paper application by visiting our website or their high school guidance counselor for assistance.

UB/UBMS Eligibility Requirements

Submit the online and/or paper application with required documentation

a. Guidance Recommendation Form

b. Two Teacher Recommendation Forms

c. 2025 Taxable Income Information (IRS 1040)

Have at least a 2.5 GPA
Be first-generation, meet federal income requirements, and/or academic risk
Be College Bound
Students accepted into Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS) must show a strong interest in obtaining a STEM related college degree.

Northern Kentucky University at a glance:

Region

US-Midwest

Type of School

4-Year Public

Campus Size

Medium (5,000-15,000 students)

Campus Setting

Suburban

Application Types

Regular Decision (See Admissions for more info)

Application Style

Common Application
Institution-Specific Application

Coping with Your Student's Absence: Tips for Parents During Upward Bound Summer Academy

As your student embarks on an enriching journey during the Upward Bound Summer Academy, it's natural for you to experience a mix of emotions, including pride, excitement, and perhaps a tinge of sadness at their absence. While you eagerly await their return, here are some tips to help you cope with missing your student and make the most of this time apart:

1. Stay Connected:
Maintain regular communication with your student while they're away. Schedule phone calls, video chats, or exchange emails to stay updated on their experiences and share in their excitement. Knowing that you're still connected can help ease the sense of separation.

2. Keep Busy:
Distract yourself by staying busy with activities and hobbies that you enjoy. Use this time to focus on personal projects, spend quality time with loved ones, or explore new interests. Keeping your mind occupied can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

3. Seek Support:
Reach out to other parents whose students are also attending the Summer Academy or are away at camp. Having a support system of fellow parents who understand what you're going through can be incredibly comforting.

4. Reflect on Their Growth:
Take this opportunity to reflect on your student's growth and achievements. Remind yourself of the valuable skills and knowledge they're gaining at the Summer Academy and the opportunities it's providing for their personal and academic development. Let them share with you some of their favorite experiences from the day or week.

5. Trust in Their Independence:
Have confidence in your student's ability to thrive independently. Trust that they are in capable hands and surrounded by supportive mentors and peers. Allow them the space to explore and learn on their own, knowing that they will return with newfound confidence and maturity.

6. Plan a Reunion:
Look forward to planning a special reunion or celebration for when your student returns home. Whether it's a family dinner, outing to their favorite restaurant, or a weekend getaway, having something to look forward to can help make the time apart feel more manageable.

7. Focus on Self-Care:
Prioritize self-care during this period of separation. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time outdoors. Taking care of yourself will not only benefit your well-being but also set a positive example for your student.

8. Embrace Gratitude:
Practice gratitude for the opportunity your student has been given to attend the educational summer academy camp. Be thankful for the experiences, knowledge, and friendships they are gaining, and for the chance to support their educational journey.

9. Keep Perspective:
Remember that this time apart is temporary and part of the natural cycle of growth and transition. Embrace the opportunity for both you and your student to learn and grow independently, knowing that you will be reunited soon with stories to share and memories to cherish. Remember, they come home every Thursday evening.

10. Cherish the Memories:
Lastly, cherish the memories you've created together and look forward to making more in the future. Reflect on past adventures, milestones, and moments of joy, and know that there are many more to come as your student continues to flourish and explore the world.

As you navigate this period of separation from your student, remember that your love and support are with them every step of the way. Embrace this time apart as an opportunity for growth, both for your student and for yourself, and cherish the moments you'll share when they return home.

Needing to contact your UB Counselor?

Ashley Cooper (Associate Director UB Central)

Schools Served: Elliott, Morgan, East Carter and Magoffin

Gabby Johnson (Associate Director UBMS South)

Schools Served: Harrison, Robertson, Paul Blazer, and Nicholas

Gabe Markwell (Associate Director UB East)

Schools Served: Bracken, Boyd, Lawrence, and Johnson

Cheyenne Wilson (Academic Coordinator)

Schools Served: Fleming, Rowan, Mason, and West Carter

Nathan Woodward Taylor (Academic Bridge Coordinator)

Schools Served: Montgomery, Lewis, Menifee, and Bath

Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math & Science are 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education and sponsored by Morehead State University.

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