Authentic Lessons for 21st Century Learning
SPARK is a 12-week, resilience-focused college and career readiness program for middle-school students. Participants improved communication, problem-solving, decision-making, emotional regulation, and resilience compared with peers receiving regular instruction. Read more »
SPARK is a 13-week, resilience-focused college and career readiness program for high school students. Participants improved communication, problem-solving, decision-making, emotional regulation, and resilience compared with peers receiving regular instruction. Read more »
A year-long peer mentoring transition program paired freshmen with trained upperclassmen. Students who participated earned higher GPAs and failed fewer classes, suggesting Link Crew can support successful adjustment to high school. Read more »
A Florida evaluation found that AVID participation increased graduation rates, and students completing three to four years of AVID were substantially more likely to enroll in college than comparable non-AVID peers. Read more »
Engaging students in career exploration early is essential to helping them develop informed, purposeful career goals. Participants will explore sustainable career exploration activities that align student career decision-making processes with the ICAP (Individual Career Academic Plan) and Oklahoma Career... Read more »
Created by: Will Markham
Date Updated: August 19th, 2026
This collection of College2Career Forums breaks down previous GEAR UP visits per location. Before diving into site-specific resources, be sure to review the College2Career Forum: How To Guide. Read more »
In this session, participants will consider the challenges that first-generation college students have with finding success in STEM programs. Participants will explore different types of interventions—representation, exposure, and coursework—and collaborate on ways to make a difference at their school... Read more »
Created by: Will Markham
Date Updated: June 9th, 2026
Students who invest time and effort into academics and campus organizations experience positive academic outcomes. Getting involved in campus social life will make students feel more integrated into the campus community, improving their sense of belonging. Joining an academic club, fraternity/sorority,... Read more »
Created by: Will Markham
Date Updated: June 30th, 2026
Pathfinder Quest: Pathways to Possibilities helps students explore how their interests connect to real careers. Through online activities and reflection, students learn that choosing a major isn’t about being perfect, but rather finding a path that fits who they are and where they want to go. Read more »
Created by: Will Markham
Date Updated: July 21st, 2026
Pathfinder Quest: Welcome to the Trail is an introductory workshop focusing on giving students the chance to meet new peers, connect with GEAR UP staff, and discuss questions and concerns they have about post-secondary education. Read more »
Created by: Will Markham
Date Updated: August 14th, 2026
