Children entering the fourth grade have more on their minds than action figures and macaroni and cheese - they may subconsciously be deciding how far they want to go in their lives.

Early in their education, elementary students, many who attend school in low socio-economic districts, are making decisions that will affect the rest of their lives, said Renee Gersten, site coordinator of the College Bound program.

"These are the 'at risk' children who could be future dropouts. At this age they begin to decide if they drop out of high school, graduate, or go on to college" she said. These underprivileged fourth graders are the target audience for the College Bound program.

The program, funded by the not-for-profit McBride Foundation, is a national program of community service - performed by students in universities, community colleges and vocational schools. They work with elementary school students exploring all aspects of the college environment.

College Bound consists of a six-week program in which volunteers visit the classroom on five occasions, once per week, and ends with giving the children a tour of the UA campus.

The University of Arizona is now looking for volunteers to go into the classroom, which provides an opportunity for the children to ask questions about college and become excited about their education.

Phil Davis, McBride Foundation's executive director, said there is a need to provide children with encouragement. "Kids at the elementary school levels are not being reached, and we want to reach them at an early age."

The volunteers also discuss ways to avoid financial hardships when going to college. "You just see their faces light up, thinking, 'Oh wow, I want to be a doctor so I have to go to college and graduate school. I'm going to work really hard to get a scholarship.'"

Most of these kids won't be able to pay for tuition because they come from low socio-economic families, she said.

Gersten also said, "The volunteers let the kids know that if they work hard now, they may be able to get good grades and a scholarship that will take them to college."

Volunteers who dedicate their time to working with the children find themselves benefiting from the program as well.

"College students are getting in touch with their community and sharing their experiences of college with younger children. They are inspiring these children to set goals for themselves and they are being role models," Gersten said.

"It is really neat to see all of their faces lighten up because they haven't seen anything like us before," she said.

The program can also be a good way to gain teaching experience and build a resume.

Gerstend said, "Being an education major, I have found that working with the kids is good teaching experience," she said. The program is open, however, to all undergraduates and graduates who enjoy working with children.

Volunteers can schedule meetings with the students at their convenience. "You can talk with the elementary teacher and decide when you are coming to class. It is really relaxed," Gersten said.

Molly Webb, exercise and sport sciences junior and former College Bound volunteer, said the program is not a huge time commitment. "You spend two hours a week tops preparing and talking with the kids," she said.

Webb also said the program is in need of some volunteers who are willing to put in the effort and follow through with their commitment. "You really have to be dedicated," she said.

Gersten said the success of College Bound at the UA depends upon how many students get involved. "There were 15 volunteers last year, and we are looking for a huge turnout (this year) so that the program can grow," she said.

More information on joining the College Bound team will be available Thursday, Oct. 17 at 4:30 p.m. in Room 281 of the Cactus Lounge in the Memorial Student Union. A training session will be held Oct. 23 in the Tucson Room of the Student Union at 4:30 p.m. offering those who missed the first meeting a second chance to participate.

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