The Office of College Access Initiatives manages the following programs for youth.

Upward Bound

Upward Bound (UB) is an intensive program serving highly motivated students’ successful transition to post-secondary institutions. UB builds a support system that enhances students’ academic and social experiences.

For whom? UB serves highly motivated, first generation, low-income high school youth in grades 9-12 in the Lansing area. Its Summer Academy serves high school students from Flint, Detroit, and Muskegon, in addition to Lansing students. UB also offers a Summer Bridge program for rising college freshmen.

KCP/MI GEAR UP

Michigan Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (MI GEAR UP) provides early intervention services starting in seventh grade and follows students for 7 years. MI GEAR UP is designed to increase the number of low-income students entering college and prepare them for post-secondary education.

For whom? MI GEAR UP serves Lansing area middle and high school students (7th grade through first year college) and their families from schools in which 50% or more of the students are eligible for free or reduced lunch programs.

KCP College Day Programs

The KCP College Day Programs (KCP) works with students to increase their enrollment in higher education through college visitations, mentoring, and preparation for college success.

For whom? KCP serves Lansing area middle and high school students who are underrepresented in higher education.