Gaining Early Access and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, otherwise known as GEAR UP, is a discretionary grant program designed to increase the number of middle and high school low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.
from July 9 through July 14, 2023, ninety GEAR UP students from the Sumter School District took over Claflin University to learn what it means to be a college student.s. This event would not have been possible if it were not for the vision of Ms. Audrika Gadson, GEAR UP College Support Specialist for Sumter High School. When asked why a program like this? Ms. Gadson
stated, "She wanted the students from all three high schools to bond while they lived and learned together.".
GEAR UP University was designed for students to gain a first-hand life experience on a college campus. Some of the week's activities provided students with techniques to increase their confidence, problem-solving,
goal-setting skills and understanding of collegiate expectations. Throughout each day, students were in classes that provided the necessary tools to assist them in creating their resumes and writing their personal narratives and scholarship essays.
After an entire morning of classes and a much need lunch break, students participated in extracurricular teambuilding and leadership activities. To add to the excitement, the students had the opportunity to create an original music video; a fantastic job to the staff and students who participated!
The students attending decided to establish and vote for a GEAR UP Student Government Association (GUSGA) to provide entertainment for the week. Because of the hard work of the GUSGA, the students had the opportunity to enjoy a movie night, a cookout/water party, and an all-white affair.
During the closing ceremony, we named our first Miss and Mr. GEAR UP; congratulations to Miss GEAR UP, Miss Gabrielle Miller and Mr. Quindon Dais, and Mr. Darius Moye, our Mr. GEAR UP.
All had a good time, but the exciting news came when we learned that our students earned 1.5 million dollars in scholarships!
A hearty thank you to those who worked the front lines and behind the scenes for a job well-done.
What's some.
What's some.
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