Since 1982, the Harbor's college preparatory programs have helped thousands of young people achieve their very best. These programs represent the culminating Harbor experience for minority youth in Harlem, and a very precious opportunity. Participating students are in grades nine through twelve, most of whom represent the first potential generation to attend college. More than 90% of those who take part go on to college.

Upward Bound: In this rigorous program, promising high school students come to the Harbor every afternoon after school for college preparation classes, workshops in test taking strategies, writing skills and library research, and assistance with the often-daunting college admissions process. We also offer mentoring, internship opportunities, career education, special cultural activities and activities for parents.

College Tours: By visiting campuses, our students can see what the college environment is like and begin to picture themselves as college students. Our tours range from one day to one week in duration. Each summer, students embark on a weeklong tour where they visit six to seven campuses. Participating young people gain a new perspective on education as they begin to identify what possibilities lay ahead of them after they graduate high school.

Cornell Summer College: Summer College participants benefit from a strong support system throughout their summer experience, including tutoring where needed and a designated faculty mentor who carefully follows their progress. They live in a dormitory, attend classes, and interact with other students from around the country and the world. Graduates of Summer college also receive an immediate academic advantage: up to six college credits that can be applied toward an undergraduate degree at another institute of higher learning.

Junior State of America: JSA is a national student run debate organization of which Upward Bound students have been involved since 2000. Students attend three major debate conventions throughout the school year: Fall State in Massachusetts, Winter Congress in Washington DC and Spring State in Connecticut. Over 600 students from several states participate in these conventions. Students learn more about how our government operates and the importance of participating in the political process. Students practice their debating skills by debating on current events and other relevant issues in their weekly meeting using Robert’s Rules of Order.

SAT Preparation: Free SAT preparation classes are offered and are open to anyone on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Students are recruited from our target schools, which are:

Students must be active members of the Upward Bound program to take advantage of the activities offered.