Hello all!! I am Ms. Ayana Martin, the Interim Academic Counselor for the Upward Bound program. I am also a recent graduate of Kentucky State University with a Liberal Studies degree concentrating in Elementary Education.

I hail from the lovely city of Chicago, Illinois and I love working with children of all ages, which is a deep passion of mine. My goal is to work as an Education Administrative Executor and have the ability to make the best decisions concerning children in all aspects of their lives.

the ability to make the best decisions concerning children in all aspects of their lives.

Furthermore, my passion is to ensure all children receive the best opportunities to achieve their goals. I want to make sure I have an impact on the lives of others. (I look forward to meeting all of you during this upcoming fall semester.

This year the Upward Bound summer trip consisted of a trip to Atlanta, GA and Pensacola, FL. During our stay in Atlanta, we were able to visit Clark Atlanta University where students

gained a great deal of knowledge about admissions and other important college information.

Due to the weather, we were not able to visit Morehouse College and Spelman College as planned. From Clark Atlanta University, we were able to visit Six Flags where the students spent hours having a blast riding roller coasters and shopping in the park.

Last but not least, we were able to make a quick stop at the Pensacola Beach, where the students had fun in the sun, shopped, and enjoyed the beautiful beach. Lastly, we would like to thank the parent chaperones that helped and supported our summer trip!

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, And you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit- Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,

As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a fellow turns about When he might have won had he stuck it out. Don't give up though the pace seems slow - You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than

It seems to a faint and faltering man; Often the struggler has given up When he might have captured the victor's cup; And he learned too late when the night came down, How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -

The silver tint in the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell how close you are, It might be near when it seems afar; So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit - It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

Author Unknown

During the summer component of Upward Bound, students had weekly classes which included Math, Science, French and English for the sophomore and freshman. The Juniors and Seniors practiced Kaplan/ACT Prep and attended college seminars. Upward Bound also visited several college campuses that included Georgetown College, Berea College, and the UK Pharmacy School.

Also, some of the summer fun activities included a swim party, pizza party, movies, and electives. Electives included cooking, basketball, Zumba, and media class. Also, Freshman and Sophomores participated in a Robotics class while Juniors participated in motivational speaking and visits from colleges such as University of Louisville and Transylvania University. Last but not least, Seniors participated in work study jobs that promoted career readiness.

On August 24th, 2013, we had a great orientation and fun day for the students. Orientation started at ten o'clock on Kentucky State University's campus where we discussed the academic school year as well as the Upward Bound rules and regulations. During orientation, schedules of events and hand books were passed out to students and parents.

where we discussed the academic school year as well as the Upward Bound rules and regulations. During orientation, schedules of events and hand books were passed out to students and parents.

The Academic Counselor, Ms. Ayana Martin, passed out information pertaining to academic performance per grade level, ACT information and information about the PSAT on October 16th.

Ms. Reynolds, the Administrative Assistant, made sure that all parents and students signed the Code of Conduct Form as well as made sure all students' and parents' contact information was updated. It was a very successful orientation and we thank you all for your participation and support.

Our day also included a trip to Cincinnati to the Underground Railroad Museum as well as Kings Island. At the Underground Railroad Museum students were able to walk through exhibits and experience what African American slaves endured.

Also, students watched a live movie depicting the slave experience from the Ohio River to Cincinnati to make it to freedom which was in Canada. It was an awesome cultural experience for the students. Later that day, we headed to Kings Island where students enjoyed a fun filled day of roller coasters, games, and food.

On September 14th, Upward Bound visited Centre College in Danville, KY. Students were able to tour the campus as well to ask admissions questions about Centre. Also, students learned about the various majors, minors, special programs, clubs, organizations, scholarships and financial aid. Centre is a strong academic college with a great reputation.

Time Management – Manage your time wisely. Study habits – Maintain sound study habits. Set attainable goals – Short term and long term goals. Concentration – Concentrate attentively in class and while studying. Good note taking – Take good notes in class. Complete assignments – Effectively and timely. Review daily notes – Take time to study your notes at home for at least an hour a day.

Organizational skills – Buy a calendar or an assignment notebook. Motivation – Stay positive. Keep yourself encouraged. Commitment – Always keep your word and reach for your set goals.

Upward Bound would like to thank all the parents for their support and cooperation throughout the summer program and the academic school year! We appreciate each of you! Also, we would like to thank the Upward Bound students for their participation and effort throughout the summer program and we look forward to having a successful school year!!!