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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville TRIO Upward Bound’s Ideah Bradley is on a full-circle journey as the newest program Data Specialist who graduated from the college readiness program as a teen in 2021.

Bradley begins her MBA at SIUE in January 2026. Throughout her academic career, she has stayed connected to the TRIO Upward Bound experience. After graduating the program as a teen, Bradley went on to receive an undergrad degree in Entrepreneurship and Business Management yet returned every summer to SIUE to work with TRIO as a summer counselor. Upon graduating with her bachelor’s she received several job offers, but chose to launch her career at SIUE.

Bradley joined us to answer a few questions about the impact of TRIO Upward Bound on her career and how teens may embrace the opportunity. 
  
Describe your position at TRIO Upward Bound.

In my role as a Data Specialist for TRIO Upward Bound, I manage and maintain accurate student records within the Blumen Online database system to ensure program compliance and effective reporting.

How did you first learn about SIUE’s TRIO Upward Bound Program before enrolling as a teen?

I first learned about SIUE’s TRIO Upward Bound Program while attending Wirth/Parks Middle School. Program counselors visited our school to recruit students and provide information about the opportunities and support services offered through TRIO. The program immediately stood out to me as both interesting and beneficial for my future goals at the time, so I decided to apply and see what the program had to offer. 

How did growing up in Cahokia influence those decisions you made when pursuing your major and ultimately your career choices?

Growing up in Cahokia gave me firsthand insight into the challenges many students face related to access to resources, academic support and postsecondary guidance. Being a part of a community where educational opportunities were not always clearly accessible motivated me to pursue a path centered on service, advocacy, and support. My experiences helped me develop a strong desire to give back and to be a positive resource for people navigating similar circumstances.

Any specific lessons you remember from your times either as a TRIO Upward Bound student or counselor?

During my time in TRIO Upward Bound, one of the biggest lessons I learned was the value of support and community, realizing that I didn’t have to navigate school or the college process alone. The program pushed me outside my comfort zone through new academic challenges and college experiences, which taught me confidence, time management and more.

As I worked with mentors and peers, I also learned how important it is to ask for help. Those experiences showed me that college is not only possible but achievable with the right guidance and determination, and they continue to shape how I approach goals and challenges today.

How do you plan to apply your MBA?

I plan to apply my MBA by strengthening the strategic and managerial skills needed to pursue several entrepreneurial paths, including real estate, fitness and interior design. The program will help deepen my understanding of business operations, allowing me to develop and grow ventures in these areas with a more informed and disciplined approach.

What would you like future students of TRIO Upward Bound to know about its benefits and applying to the program?

I would like future students of TRIO Upward Bound to know that the program offers far more than academic support. It provides guidance, mentorship, and opportunities that can truly shape your future.

Upward Bound helps you build confidence, develop strong study habits, and gain exposure to college and career pathways you might not have considered. Applying to the program is absolutely worth it because it connects you with people who genuinely want to see you succeed and gives you the resources to stay focused, motivated, and prepared for what comes next.

Take advantage of every resource given to you, because you never know where it can lead you. 
 
 
Bradley’s enthusiasm for her new role does not go unnoticed by her colleagues.

“Watching Ideah come full circle, from a driven TRIO Upward Bound student to a leader within the very program that shaped her; reminds me why TRIO exists,” said Christopher Cooper, Program Director SIUE TRIO, Upward Bound Programs. “She is living proof that when opportunity meets determination, greatness follows." 
 
PHOTO:  Ideah Bradley