About Us
The UTRGV Ganining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) project began providing services to over 3,900 students from 5 school districts across 19 middle schools in 2024-2025.
Project Description
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) project is based on introducing research-based programs and practices that will help students be successful in middle and high school and ultimately prepare them for transition to post-secondary education. Through the partnership involving university, colleges, schools and community partners, students will be supported as they engage in rigorous academic curriculum in preparation for postsecondary education and leadership development. Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is committed to increasing college enrollment rates among low-income youth by developing and offering comprehensive services such a Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) activities, college/career and leadership camps, mentoring, counseling, outreach, awareness and other supportive services for participating students and their parents.
Cohort Model
UTRGV Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) will follow a cohort model. Any student within the campus grade level served is eligible for services. New students can be added at any time throughout the grant period provided they are in the grade level serviced.