About Our Program


GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a nationwide project focused on improving school completion and college attendance rates for first-generation students, minority students, students with disabilities, and other underrepresented student groups.

Starting in 2020, project faculty, staff, and partners began work to provide resources and services that impacted over 1200 students in both Bryan and Hearne ISDs.

GEAR UP offers many ways to boost the level of success for these groups of students including:

  • Personal and group counseling
  • Summer enrichment programs
  • Tutoring and mentoring
  • Family outreach activities
  • College visits
  • Workshops for students about testing, organization, financial aid, college choices, and application processes.

The project offers resources for students as well as parents and educators to increase awareness and decision making skills regarding college, careers and life skills.