2023 - Take Five with…Cory Lemay

Cory Lemay, director of TRiO Upward Bound, began leading the program in 2022. Growing up in coastal New England, in the pine tree state of Maine, Lemay’s first experience with TRiO Upward Bound began as a high school student in the program. “Having the opportunity to serve now as the director is very motivating because I have the chance to support current students in the same way that my Upward Bound staff in high school supported me,” said Lemay.

After receiving his degree in education, Lemay left his hometown to explore, spending time in Arizona, California, and Hawaii. Read on and learn more about Lemay’s time living in Hawaii, what’s on his playlist, and his third connection to TRiO Upward Bound, this time when he was at the University of Southern Maine.

Where is the best place you’ve traveled, or where is somewhere you dream of going, and why? I had the opportunity to live on the Big Island of Hawaii for around four years. Hawaii has some of the most incredible people, places, food, and traditions that I've had the opportunity to experience.

What was your first job? I worked two jobs when I first started. I folded laundry for a bed-and-breakfast and worked as a residential advisor & tutor for the Upward Bound Program at the University of Southern Maine. 

What is your favorite meal to cook or eat out? My favorite foods are definitely curry, lau lau, kelaguen, and lasagna.

What’s on your playlist/podcast list? Some of my favorite artists include Bruce Springsteen (e.g., Born to Run), Common Kings (e.g., Before You Go), and The Weeknd (e.g., Less Than Zero).

What did you want to be when you grew up? Growing up, I initially wanted to be a high school biology teacher. Fun fact: I can still identify most trees across the northeastern United States.