Upward Bound Student Finds Opportunity in 'Getting Connected'

SYLVA - Upward Bound, a grant-funded program at Southwestern Community College, recently launched its new website. The site will be managed by Jason Pallotta, a Smoky Mountain High School student who has been in Upward Bound since the program first began at Southwestern in 1999.

Pallotta, who is currently taking concurrent enrollment classes at SCC to gain education in computer technology, interned at Metrostat Technologies, Inc., through Upward Bound this past summer.

Based in Sylva, Metrostat's network design and build capabilities range from small office premise wiring to outside plant design and construction using the latest technologies.

Upward Bound, a program funded by the U.S. Department of Education, serves high school students in Jackson, Macon and Swain Counties as well as the Qualla Boundary. By supporting Upward Bound, western North Carolina businesses like Metrostat have been instrumental in providing students with the opportunities and motivation they need to succeed.

"The new site will be a valuable resource to students who wish to utilize the web as an academic support tool from their schools and homes," said Pam Schadt, director of SCC's Upward Bound program.

Schadt also said that the academic resources provided on the new website include links to many other Internet sites designed to provide assistance with everything from finding scholarships and financial aid to helping with specific classes. The site will also serve to keep students informed about upcoming program events such as cultural enrichment activities, service learning projects, workshops and college tours.

Individuals who are not currently involved with Upward Bound, including prospective participants, will be able to learn more about the program from the website.

"Jason is looking forward to making improvements and updates to the page as he gains both education and experience in web design," said Schadt. "Although Upward Bound helps students take a variety of roads to success, there is no doubt that the increased accessibility of resources and links will help students on their journeys."