UB Chronicle
The Upward Bound Programs at Morehead State University
May 2026 Volume 5 Issue 9
Embedded Files
Starting the New School Year Off on the Right Foot
Starting the New School Year Off on the Right Foot
Taken from moxcc.com
It’s hard to believe that summer is over, and a new school year is upon us. Students should be taking advantage of all that high school has to offer so that they can prepare to stand out on their college applications. Waiting until the last minute is never a good game plan. Every year and every decision counts.
Remember that grades, test scores and extracurricular activities should represent you in the best way possible.
To help you start the new school year off on the right foot, here are some tips to help you get started:
Review class schedules.
Review class schedules.
Ideally, this should be done prior to the start of the new school year, but it’s not too late to review class selections and make any necessary changes. Classes should be challenging, but not too difficult. Being mindful of your grades and the difficulty of the course load are the most important factors considered by college admissions teams. As a result, it’s important to find the right balance when choosing classes.
Get organized this new school year!
Get organized this new school year!
An organized student is a prepared student. Learning to keep track of dates and deadlines is important now, and in college. With full schedules, many students find themselves feeling stressed. One of the best remedies for that is organization. You should learn to use a calendar – whether it be on your phone, or in a planner. In addition, writing notes and reminders to yourself so that you won’t miss out on any important dates. This will also help avoid being ill-prepared for assignments and other tasks.
Work hard.
Work hard.
It goes without saying that grades count in the college admissions process. Students need to take that seriously. Additionally, they should work their hardest to complete assignments and homework on time, and study hard for tests. Now is not the time to be shy if you need help, either. It is imperative to seek help from a teacher or tutor before falling behind.
Stay involved – participate in clubs, activities and sports.
Stay involved – participate in clubs, activities and sports.
Colleges are seeking well-rounded students. They love students who are involved. A new school year is an opportunity to try out new clubs and activities, as well as those previously enjoyed. This can be intimidating for some students – especially freshmen. Remember, the goal is to find something they like to do and to learn new life skills. Also, sharing their skills with others and ultimately working their way into leadership positions can result from these opportunities.
Master a talent, subject, or hobby this new school year.
Master a talent, subject, or hobby this new school year.
Encourage your student to set aside the time to become proficient in a talent, subject, or hobby. It can be anything – the stock market, knitting, dance, violin, starting a YouTube channel, becoming an expert in recycling or fitness. Encourage them to seek out internships or mentor others in their field of interest.
Research and apply for scholarships.
Research and apply for scholarships.
There are thousands of scholarships available to students in all grades of high school. You can start researching on fastweb.com and scholarships.com. You can’t expect to get a scholarship if you don’t apply for it, so encourage your student to research and apply for them before the deadlines creep up.
Read, Read, Read.
Read, Read, Read.
You need a good vocabulary and excellent reading comprehension skills in order to excel on standardized tests like the PSAT, ACT and SAT. The best way to build a vocabulary and strong reading skills is to read. Whether it’s your local library, The New York Times Best Sellers List, or a book club – there are plenty of great choices on every subject possible. Even magazines in a specific area of interest provide excellent reading material. The point is to read as much and as often as you can to increase your vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Watch social media posting this new school year.
Watch social media posting this new school year.
What students post on social media matters. College admissions offices have been known to deny and/or rescind admission offers based on controversial and offensive posts. Embarrassing and potentially harmful content should never be posted. It’s not worth it if it jeopardizes your chance of going to the college of your choice.
Make good choices.
Make good choices.
We’ve all heard it before: One bad decision can change a person’s life. Yet it’s the same things we tend to read about time and time again that ruin young lives. Making good decisions throughout high school and surrounding yourself with people who are on the same journey will help you avoid any little mistakes that may jeopardize your chances of getting into your dream college and beyond.
Riddle Me This! April 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.
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.
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.
You also need to complete tutoring if your grade in any class falls below a C average.
Class of 2026
Class of 2026
Class of 2027
Class of 2027
Class of 2028
Class of 2028
Class of 2029
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
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.
Helping Your Student Deal with Homesickness
Helping Your Student Deal with Homesickness
As the Summer Academy approaches many students are eagerly preparing for the exciting adventure of the Upward Bound Summer Academy. While this time promises of new friendships, educational advancement, and unforgettable memories, it can also stir up feelings of homesickness in some students.
As a parent/guardian it’s natural to feel concerned how your student will cope with being away from home. Below are some tips to help both you and your student navigate and hopefully conquer homesickness during their time at the Summer Academy.
Encourage Open Communication:
Before your student heads off to Upward Bound, have an open and honest conversation about their feelings and concerns. Let them know that it's normal to feel homesick and reassure them that it's okay to talk about it. Encourage them to express their emotions and listen attentively without judgment.
Familiarize Them with the Summer Academy Environment:
Help ease your student's anxiety by familiarizing them with the campus environment before they leave. We hold a Pre-Move In Orientation for students the week before move in to help alleviate the anxiety and stress of living on campus. They get their schedule, do campus tours, meet their roommates, We point out key areas such as the dining hall, residence halls, and classroom buildings, so they feel more comfortable and know what to expect.
Pack Comfort Items:
Include comforting items from home in your student's packing list, such as a favorite stuffed animal, a cozy blanket, or family photos. Having familiar objects nearby can provide a sense of security and comfort during moments of homesickness.
Practice Independence
Encourage your student to practice independence in the weeks leading up to camp by spending time away from home, whether it's a sleepover at a friend's house or a weekend trip with relatives. This will help build their confidence in being away from home and foster a sense of self-reliance.
Stay Positive and Supportive:
Remain positive and supportive throughout the Summer Academy experience. Send encouraging letters or care packages filled with love and reminders of home. Avoid discussing how much you miss them, as this can exacerbate feelings of homesickness. Instead, focus on uplifting messages and excitement for their adventures. Homesickness can lead to potential headaches, stomachaches, loss of appetite, crying, feeling lonely. This is normal. Remind them they will come home every Thursday.
Establish a Communication Plan:
Work with your student to establish a communication plan that works for both of you. Whether it's writing letters, scheduling phone calls, or using email, having regular contact can provide reassurance and connection while they're away.
Encourage Engagement and Participation:
Encourage your student to engage fully in Summer Academy activities and make new friends. Immersing themselves in the educational experience can help distract them from feelings of homesickness and foster a sense of belonging.
Seek Support from Upward Bound Staff:
Remind your student that Resident Advisors and Upward Bound staff are there to support them. Encourage them to reach out if they're feeling overwhelmed or homesick. Knowing that there are caring adults available can provide additional comfort and reassurance.
Focus on the Positive:
Remind your student that Resident Advisors and Upward Bound staff are there to support them. Encourage them to reach out if they're feeling overwhelmed or homesick. Knowing that there are caring adults available can provide additional comfort and reassurance.
Focus on the Positive:
Help your student shift their focus from what they're missing at home to the exciting experiences and opportunities that the Summer Academy has to offer. Encourage them to keep a journal or scrapbook to document their adventures and accomplishments.
Be Prepared for Setbacks:
Be Prepared for Setbacks:
Finally, be prepared for setbacks and moments of homesickness. Reassure your student that it's normal to have ups and downs and remind them of the coping strategies they can use to overcome their feelings.
How We Handle Homesickness
How We Handle Homesickness
We educate and train our staff to detect early signs of homesickness by presenting the different ways students miss home. The staff are trained on the skills needed to empathetically guide students with homesickness by routinely going through specific scenarios and role playing. Our staff is here to support your student through their homesickness and help them be happy and thrive during the Summer Academy.
If your student is having a persistent difficulty adjusting (crying frequently, not eating, not able to interact with others, trouble sleeping), we will contact you to share the situation and collaboratively make a plan moving forward to address their adjustment. In most cases, these symptoms of homesickness go away quickly with the distraction of fun activities, friends, and support from staff members. However, if any behavior of concern arises, we will be sure to contact you.
Needing to contact your UB Counselor?
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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