Student spotlight: Jayonna Taylor

By: College Coach Kyra Woods
College Coach’s Note: Jayonna is such a strong-willed and compassionate person. Her strong will allows her to be committed to the things that she starts and her compassion allows her to build community during the process. In the short time that I have known Jayonna, I have grown to admire her commitment to Upward Bound and her ability to cultivate community.
Jayonna joined upward Bound because she wanted to be a part of a community that pushed her towards growth. When making the decision to join, she knew that college was a personal goal and thought that this program would be ​very helpful.

Of course, she was absolutely correct. She prides herself on seeking all opportunities that are presented to her and Upward Bound was one of those opportunities.
            Jayonna has an amazing understanding of what a good work ethic produces. She knows that the outcome of her successes are dependent on how much she dedicates herself to them. This is a trait that I would love to see in every Upward Bound student.

Name: Jayonna Taylor
Grade: Sophomore
Favorite Classes at MCHS: Certified Nursing Assistant class through the Muncie Area Career Center and English
Least Favorite MCHS Classes: Chemistry
Favorite Upward Bound field trip: The group trip to Washington D.C. Seeing the monuments, visiting the Frederick Douglas Memorial house, and taking the boat tour were all very fun things to do.
Favorite Upward Bound Workshop: The Money Madness workshop-- The budgeting activity was really fun and I liked that we got to manage our own money.
Why did you join Upward Bound? I heard about Upward Bound my freshmen year and wanted to be a part of it because of the college readiness aspect. 
How have your grades changed since joining Upward Bound? My grades haven’t changed drastically, but getting help in specific subjects has really allowed me to understand my school work better than before.
Why should someone join Upward Bound? Upward Bound offers emotional and motivational support. If someone needs that and wants to get ready for college this is the perfect program. As long as they are willing to put in work, Upward Bound will work for them. Students should also join for educational field trips and college tours.
What staff member(s) are you closest to? I am closest to Ms. Gabbi. We have a lot of love for each other and she’s always there to help and/or just to talk.
What are you goals for the future? I definitely want to graduate from college and possibly join a collegiate Greek organization. I would also like to travel with friends to Bora Bora one day.