This personal experience essay was written by a current Upward Bound senior as he reflects back on his experiences with Upward Bound.  Patrick has graciously granted us permission to post his essay here.

Success Through Upward Bound

    Upward Bound has greeted me with open arms and changed me in several ways.  Without this program I would have a C average.  Now after two years in this program, I maintain an A average, I push myself unlike other people, and I'm more open to new ideas.

    Before I started Upward Bound, I was anti-social.  When my feelings were hurt, I hid behind my sense-of-humor.  My ego was always getting me into fights with others, and I showed no respect for authority.  My focus was on the pessimism of events and I viewed my glass half empty.  For example, when I got a bad grade in a class, I would argue with the teacher instead of finding out how I could improve in that area.  I was always willing to pull jokes on other people.  I would never take time at home to study, and I would wait until the last minute to finish big projects.  I was never comfortable with asking teachings questions, and I had a hard time paying attention in class.  With my involvement in Upward Bound, my attitude and personality changed.

    Through the academic experiences that I've gained in Upward Bound, I've altered dramatically.  Even to this day I hide some of my emotions, but I express myself to certain individuals.  Now I enjoy joking with my friends and pulling pranks as long as they aren't hurtful to others.  My focus on life has switched from pessimism to optimism.  For example, now if I get a bad grade, I know that I need to try harder instead of arguing with the teacher.  I also show respect for authority, and I treat people better.  I have no problem asking teachers questions, and I have no problem paying attention in class anymore.  Through my personal changes, I've gained plenty of new experiences from life.

    My academic life wasn't the only thing that was crumbling from bad habits.  My personal life was slowly going down hill.  I refused to talk to my parents about problems I was having.  My fear of getting close to people hindered my relationships; I was afraid of getting close to anyone.  My family and I were slowly breaking away from each other.  My time at home was spent reading books or playing video games.

    Through two years of Upward Bound, my personal life slowly got better.  I have no problem talking to my parents anymore.  My family and I spend at least a day each week where we just have family time.  I have tons of friends, and I usually hang out with one of them each week as a result of Upward Bound.  Thanks to this program I've been able to face my personal fears and overcome them.

    Upward Bound has helped me piece together both my personal and academic life, and I would have never developed into the person I am today without this program.  This program has shown me my weaknesses and has helped me turn them into strengths.

Written by:  Patrick Tetrick