UBMS is a program designed to help high school students seeking a degree in a math or science field. The program is available only to students whose parents did not attend college.

Volunteers are needed to help greet and supervise students, distribute materials and enhance experience for participants.

"The high school students are happy to just hang out and have fun with the college students," Denisse Vargas Sioss, director of UBMS, said. "It allows them to see a glimpse of college life."

Shante Watson, a former mentor, volunteered because of her own collegiate experiences.

"I had to figure out how to get through college on my own, and it was difficult. I wanted to help them any way I can," said Watson, who graduated from Stephen F. Austin State Univeristy.

UBMS also gives monthly workshops throughout the school year and offers tutoring services, summer courses and counseling on financial aid applications and hosts field trips.

Sioss said many students are unsure of their direction or struggle in school.

"Maybe all they need is encouragement," she said.

Visiting an active college campus can help change high school students’ conceptions, Akiko Moore, a UBMS student, said.

"Once I sat in the same classroom as college students and met people, I was more motivated," Moore said.

Former volunteer Rim Mohamed chose to work with students on an academic level by tutoring math.

"Not only did I help the students by counseling them, but I got to enrich my own math abilities at the same time," Mohamed said.

Students willing to volunteer for College Day should meet in the UBMS office at Room 466, Farish Hall, at 8 a.m. Jan. 27. The event lasts until 2 p.m. For more information, e-mail dvargas3@uh.edu.