"Virginia UPrep is dedicated to bridging the gap between education and opportunity by providing out-of-school time (OST) programs that prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success. Through STEM, liberal arts, and mentorship, we empower students with the skills, resources, and support they need to navigate their future—whether in higher education, skilled trades, or entrepreneurial ventures. Our goal is to build a strong community where every student has access to the tools needed to achieve their full potential."
Virginia UPrep’s STEM programming provides students with hands-on, real-world experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Through activities such as robotics, coding challenges, and engineering projects, students are encouraged to explore the world of innovation and problem-solving. We collaborate with local tech firms and universities to offer mentorship, giving students exposure to professionals in the field and opportunities to apply what they learn in class to real-world situations. This programming is designed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and tech innovators.
In addition to STEM, we believe in the power of the arts to inspire creativity and expression. Virginia UPrep’s liberal arts and creative programming includes opportunities in journalism, performing arts, and media production. Students engage in writing, editing, and multimedia storytelling, developing skills that prepare them for careers in communications, journalism, and media. Our performing arts program, which includes dance, music, theater, and public speaking, helps students build confidence and express themselves in new and exciting ways. We also offer digital media creation and photography workshops that allow students to explore the ever-growing field of content creation and media.
Athletics plays an important role at Virginia UPrep, not only in developing physical skills but also in fostering teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Our sports programs are designed to promote physical fitness while teaching life lessons about dedication and resilience. Beyond the field, we offer mentorship programs that link athletic achievement with personal and professional development. Through this integration of athletics and character-building, we aim to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in all aspects of life.
We understand that preparing for the future requires more than just academic skills—it’s about preparing students for life beyond high school. That’s why our college and career readiness programs are an essential part of Virginia UPrep’s OST offerings. We provide students with ACT/SAT prep sessions to help them excel in standardized testing, as well as guidance in navigating the college application process. In addition, we arrange college tours and guidance sessions, including virtual and in-person visits to universities, with a focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Career readiness is also a priority, offering workshops on resume writing, interview techniques, and professional networking to equip students for successful futures.
At Virginia UPrep, mentorship is at the heart of our student success strategy. We connect high school students with college students in education majors to offer academic support and mentoring. College students also serve as role models for younger students, providing guidance and fostering a sense of community. Additionally, we provide internship and job-shadowing opportunities that give students a firsthand look at various careers and industries. These mentorship experiences, combined with hands-on opportunities, help prepare our students for the workforce and their future careers.
We believe that family and community involvement is key to student success. Virginia UPrep’s community engagement programs foster a strong partnership between students, their families, and local organizations. We host family engagement events that bring together parents, students, and mentors to discuss academic and personal growth. By forming partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, we create opportunities for students to gain real-world experiences, whether through internships, job-shadowing, or collaborative projects. This strong community support system ensures that students have the resources and connections they need to thrive in their educational journeys.
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Virginia University Preparatory is a youth organization dedicated to creating a world where every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We believe that by providing young people with the right support, resources, and opportunities, they can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the world.
Founded in 2005, Virginia University Preparatory has been serving the youth of our community for over 15 years. We started as a small group of volunteers with a big dream, and over the years we have grown into a thriving organization that has helped thousands of young people achieve their goals.
At Virginia University Preparatory, we offer a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs of young people in our community. From academic support and career readiness to arts and culture and sports and recreation, our programs provide young people with the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to succeed in life.
