Student Spotlight: Shaila J.

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater St. Louis awarded HEC Upward Bound’s very own Shaila J. as “The Youth of the Year” at the Great Futures Gala on November 14, 2015. 

Finalists shared their stories of perseverance and dedication to their families, communities, and education. Out of seven nominees, Shaila was selected and presented her three-minute speech at the gala. Her award included a plaque and a handsome monetary gift. 

As anyone can see, Shaila not only excels outside of our program but also shows up to Upward Bound upbeat, positive, and engaged. Plus, this star on the rise has a bright future ahead of her. Shaila, a freshman from Metro High School, plans to one day study Psychology in college. With the dedication she has, her star will shine brightly there, too.

Shaila, we’re proud to have you apart of our HEC Upward Bound family. Congrats!

HEC Upward Bound's Mr. Bullard and Shaila J.

Making an Impact

In a discussion about how students know adults in their lives care about them, they were asked, "How many of you have been visited in school by Mr. Bullard this year?" The response was captured in the above photo.

Merely every student raised his/her hand confirming that Mr. Bullard, the College and Career Specialist, had visited them...multiple times. Students glanced around the room recognizing how many others he serves on a regular basis and began to share stories about how he's reached out to them. Like a light a bulb flashing on in the dead of night, they realized that their Upward Bound staff cares a lot. The evidence is in the fact that he commits time (whether school visits or course preparation), information, wisdom, and resources to position them for greatness.

Bullard, a first generation college student, himself, expressed, "As I look back over my college journey and experiences, I understand it was 'Trail by Error.' Because of my college struggles, it is my desire to help students avoid the unknown college transition process. I am driven to help others achieve their college dreams despite the personal obstacles they may have to overcome."

Mr. Bullard's commitment equally reflects the rest of the HEC Upward Bound staff and teachers, who also pour in countless, often unpaid hours to make sure our students have the very best. The saying goes, "You can give without caring, but you can't care without giving." We are grateful for staff who give of themselves and are committed to caring for students, which does nothing less than making a lasting, positive impact on their lives.

Students' response from another angle.

This Week in Saturday Academy:

The Halloween Edition

Our last Saturday Academy session happened to fall on Halloween this year. While the world was preparing for evening festivities and trick-or-treating, HEC Upward Bound students were in their books.

It is one thing for students to say they are committed, but it is overwhelming and awesome when they show it. Last weekend, our students showed us their dedication when they didn't let the holiday stop them from coming out in great number for academic enrichment sessions, tutoring, and a student workshop. This is evidence that they are serious about their futures and that #TrioWorks!

Students, we are proud of you! The time you commit now will manifest in your futures!

Here's a glimpse at last Saturday:

Next Saturday Academy: Nov. 7, 2015