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Before the program, she was very bashful and was looking for support. Afterwards, Collinsville High School senior Lessly Rodriguez-Garcia was noticeably more social and confident. 

According to Rodriguez-Garcia, she improved on many levels after participating for the past three years in SIUE’s Upward Bound Scholars Academy (UBSA) at Collinsville High School (CHS). 

“I used to be extremely shy and over time this program has helped me get over it,” confided Rodriguez-Garcia. “Whether it’s meeting new people or going on college trips, being part of Upward Bound Scholars Academy has given me vital tools to communicate, interact and step out.” 

Rodriguez-Garcia was able to develop these skills, in part, because of the program’s monthly advising. 

“I really like our monthly advising sessions,” she said, “Meeting once a month helps us find out where we are academically, mentally or physically. I also like the tutoring that is available to students.” She has a 4.1 grade point average. 

Because of Rodriguez-Garcia’s excellent scholastic performance and general conduct, she was selected to attend the National Student Leadership Congress (NSLC) at American University from June 10-15 in Washington, D.C.   

“I was one of approximately 130 students nationwide who attended the National Student Leadership Congress,” she noted. “Coming in, they said we would become like a family by the end of the conference. I did not believe it would happen until the end of the week. I developed a special bond with every one of the students I was grouped with, and I believe it will be a lifelong friendship.” 

“I also enjoyed the lessons,” continued Rodriguez-Garcia. “We were taught about having gratitude, patience, and above all developing friendships.”

Upward Bound Scholars Academy (UBSA) is a TRIO program federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education. UBSA serves Collinsville High School students, ages 14-19, from low-income families and from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. 

Photo:
Upward Bound Scholars Academy student Lessly Rodriguez-Garcia