Upward Bound is a college-oriented program federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education.  It is part of a trio program designed to help students from families whose parents do not have a college degree.  These students are the first in their families to consider post-secondary education.  The program selections are made up of students from varied cultural backgrounds who have shown potential to succeed in college.  Upward Bound helps high school students from families meeting eligibility criteria, as established by the U.S. Department of Education,  to develop the skills and motivation necessary for success in college.