Every Cub Counts - TRIO Upward Bound Harcum College's Upward Bound (HCub) Program is one of Harcum College’s two federally funded TRIO programs (Student Support Services, aka SSS). HCub aims to increase college enrollment and graduation rates for high school students from low-income households, from homes where neither parent has earned a 4-year Bachelor's degree, or for students at a high academic risk of failure. The program is funded by the United States Department of Education (Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965). Learn more about the federal TRIO programs. Learn more about Harcum’s TRIO Programs.
Harcum College’s Upward Bound program is committed to bringing the opportunity of higher education to Philadelphia’s underrepresented and at risk high schools by providing 80 students with intensive year round college access programming. HCub offers weekly academic and personal coaching, standardized test support, scholarship and financial literacy training, career exposure, and more to help students build the skills necessary to earn a post-secondary degree. HCub works alongside multiple agencies within the community to meet student and household needs. A team of qualified coaches work closely with students and families to promote the highest level of achievement and success, guiding students to achieve their full potential in life. HCub creates an atmosphere that strengthens a positive sense of self, while teaching Harcum’s core values of excellence, civility, empowerment, integrity, community service, and respect for diversity.
Could you be a Cub? How to apply to TRIO Upward Bound. You must complete an application and an interview in order to qualify for the program. A complete application includes personal identification information, a copy of your current report card, and income eligibility verification information.
Please note that you will be asked to provide your Social Security Number which will ONLY be used to distribute checks and stipends to students. Benefits of Being a Cub
Academic Year Program: The academic year begins in October and ends in April/May, all Cubs have access to the following services, supports, and opportunities:
Personal & Academic Coaching - Our coaches meet with students in school weekly to support their personal and academic achievement. HCub Coaches make sure they are attending classes, completing homework and taking the most rigorous courses.
Saturday Workshops - Students meet virtually or on Harcum’s campus for three Saturdays out of the month to engage in career exploration workshops, college prep classes, and team building. Weekly Tutoring and SAT/Testing Support - Students meet weekly for academic enrichment to receive help in their classes. Students also learn testing strategies and how to manage test anxiety. Juniors take SAT prep support. Trips, College Tours, & Retreats - Students are invited on cultural trips throughout the school year. Past trips have included dining out at the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, water rafting, and bowling. Visiting museums and the theater or spending the day at Six Flags.
Scholarship & Financial Advising - Making sure our students have the funds to cover their college fees is HCub’s primary goal! A Weekly Scholarship Club offers intensive coaching to make sure students are applying for scholarships. Budgeting classes help the family compare costs of multiple colleges.
Career Exploration
Summer Residential Program: For six weeks (late June-August), students reside on the Harcum College campus in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through a simulated college experience, they learn what college is all about. While living in a dorm, students can eat in the campus dining hall, work out at the campus fitness center, and watch movies in the Little Theatre.
Out-of-state college tour: Every summer, students participate in an out-of-state retreat and college tour.
Target Schools served include, John Bartram High School, William Sayre High School, and Samuel Fels High School.
Contact Us Our office is located on the College's main campus at Our Mother of Good Counsel, Room 12 on the first floor. Liz Walker, Director of TRIO College Access Ray Curry, Assistant Director Estella Pressley, Data and Program Specialist Akeem Small, Academic Coordinator