LEAD UP

04/13/2026

DEADLINE EXTENDED! Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to get feedback, guidance, and a scholarship recognizing your hard work! This scholarship is open to ALL students and is a great way to get connected to KU student mentors!

03/29/2026

Calling all LEAD UP participants! 🎓✨
LEAD UP’s scholarship is now LIVE and open to students of all grade levels.

The application includes a short essay and a recommendation letter. Every applicant will receive personalized feedback. You’ll also have access to our virtual scholarship writing workshop to help you succeed.

Don’t miss this opportunity, apply now!

03/09/2026

Exciting news! 🎉 Ariana Siddique, a LEAD UP student leader and undergrad research assistant with our Community Youth Development and Prevention Research Team, was selected to represent the University of Kansas at the KBOR Undergraduate Research Virtual Poster Showcase. Ariana created and presented research on the MyLEADUP app, which helps students connect with volunteer KU guides for college prep and academic planning.

She’s one of just five KU students selected to present alongside peers from universities across Kansas! Arianna and the other participants will share their projects with state legislators and government leaders, showcasing the power of undergraduate research and student innovation.

10/31/2025

Join KU LEAD UP Guides for tutoring sessions every Tuesday & Thursday, 3–5 PM.

Open to Lead Up Achievers, ThrYve youth, and students served by our community partners.

All sessions are available virtually. ThrYve also offers in-person sessions once a week in partner schools. Sign up to get started.

Why join?
✔ Academic Support
✔ ACT/SAT Prep
✔ College Readiness
✔ Career Planning

📌 Don’t miss out—connect today!

👉 Sign-up link in the comments.

10/14/2025

PSA: Any student who is a citizen or an eligible non-citizen can fill out the FAFSA, regardless of their parents’ citizenship status. https://www.higheredimmigrationportal.org/resources/fafsa-hub/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNaTDxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFuVlZBbDJ5NUo3cFVYaUxoAR6BRTJyIZg1-Lj05tbR77PrZgsLkG_oBrjszFl5mHrd7A528K2tWTlmCprz0g_aem_PnQah6vGhAVnWaNBfYQixQ

This resource hub provides up-to-date information and resources to support mixed-status families to complete the FAFSA.

09/03/2025

We appreciate Dr. LaTisha Davis for partnering with us at our LEAD UP Summer Academy! Her dedication and expertise inspire our youth to reach higher. Thank you for making a difference!

I recently had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with The University of Kansas Lead Up/Thrive Program. Returning to The University of Kansas campus brought back so many memories and filled me with a sense of nostalgia. It was inspiring to engage with passionate students and professionals who...

07/22/2025

We are ready for another great LEAD UP Summer Academy.

07/17/2025

LEAD UP Summer Academy is next week—July 23rd-25th. We can't wait to see you for a transformative 3-day college campus experience!
Hosted at the University of Kansas Lawrence Campus.

If you need more info, contact: [email protected]

10/23/2023

🌟 Unlocking Potential: Embrace the Power of Extra-Curricular Activities! 🌟

High school is not just about hitting the books; it's about exploring your passions and becoming a well-rounded individual. 📚🎨🏀

Dive into the world of extra-curricular activities and watch your horizons expand. From sports teams to drama clubs, debate societies to art workshops, these extracurricular adventures provide you with opportunities to grow, make new friends, and develop valuable life skills.

So, why wait? Join a club, team, or organization today and let your high school experience be an unforgettable journey of growth and self-discovery. 🚀📝💪

06/12/2023

🎓🌐 Expand Your Horizons: Unlock the Power of Networking in College! 🤝💼

In the vast landscape of knowledge, it's not just what you know but who you know that can shape your future. 🌟 Embrace the incredible opportunities that college offers for networking and watch your academic and professional worlds flourish.

🔗📚 Networking in college opens doors to endless possibilities. Whether it's connecting with fellow students, professors, alumni, or industry professionals, building meaningful relationships can pave the way to internships, job offers, research collaborations, and lifelong friendships.

💡💡💡 Here are some tips to maximize your networking potential:
1️⃣ Attend campus events, workshops, and seminars to meet like-minded individuals and industry experts.
2️⃣ Join student organizations and clubs related to your field of interest to connect with passionate peers.
3️⃣ Take advantage of mentorship programs and seek guidance from experienced professionals.
4️⃣ Utilize social media platforms, LinkedIn, and online communities to expand your network beyond campus boundaries.
5️⃣ Be proactive, approachable, and open-minded—genuine connections often happen in unexpected places.

Remember, networking isn't just about what others can do for you—it's about mutual support and collaboration. Embrace the power of networking and unlock a world of opportunities during your college journey!

05/15/2023

🎓 Unlock Your Future! 🌟

Swipe through this carousel to discover the seamless path to securing scholarships for your college dreams! 💸💡

🔍 Step 1: Research 📚
Start by diving into the vast ocean of opportunities! Explore scholarships tailored to your field of study, interests, or demographics. Uncover hidden gems that can fuel your educational journey!

💡 Pro Tip: Check out online platforms, university websites, and local organizations for a wide range of scholarship options. 🌍

📝 Step 2: Craft Your Story 🖋️
You're unique, and your story matters! Tailor your application to showcase your achievements, aspirations, and how the scholarship aligns with your goals. Make a compelling case that sets you apart from the crowd!

💡 Pro Tip: Highlight your community involvement, leadership roles, and academic accomplishments to demonstrate your potential. 🌟

📆 Step 3: Stay Organized 📂
Keeping track is the key to success! Create a scholarship calendar to stay on top of deadlines, requirements, and any additional documents needed. Be meticulous, and ensure you submit everything on time!

💡 Pro Tip: Utilize apps or spreadsheets to organize your scholarship applications, deadlines, and progress. Stay ahead of the game! ⏰

📩 Step 4: Apply Strategically 📑
Remember, quality over quantity! Focus on scholarships that align with your goals and interests, and invest time in crafting thoughtful applications. Show your passion, dedication, and why you're the perfect fit!

💡 Pro Tip: Tailor each application to the specific scholarship requirements, emphasizing the aspects that resonate most with the awarding committee. 🎯

📬 Step 5: Follow Up ✉️
After submitting your applications, don't forget to follow up! Express your gratitude for the opportunity and inquire about the selection timeline. It shows your eagerness and professionalism.

💡 Pro Tip: Send a thank-you email or letter to the scholarship committee, expressing your appreciation for considering your application. 🙏

🎉 Step 6: Celebrate and Persist! 🎉
Receiving a scholarship is a major achievement! Celebrate your success, knowing that your hard work and determination have paid off. But remember, it's just the beginning of your exciting educational journey!

💡 Pro Tip: Even if you don't receive a particular scholarship, don't lose hope! Keep striving, as there are countless opportunities waiting to be discovered. 💪

🌟 The path to college scholarships is now illuminated! 🌟

Tag a friend who could benefit from this guide, and share your scholarship success stories in the comments below! Let's inspire each other to reach new heights! 🚀✨