Eighth graders explore college through GEAR UP Maine RISE immersion experiences
More than 200 GEAR UP Maine RISE eighth grade students participated in College Immersion experiences this spring, spending two days and one night on the campuses of Thomas College, the University of Maine and the University of Maine at Fort Kent.
During the immersions, students toured campuses, stayed in residence halls, participated in academic and career-focused workshops and connected with college students and staff. These experiences gave students a firsthand look at college life and introduced them to the opportunities available after high school.
GEAR UP Maine RISE designed the College Immersion program to help students explore postsecondary education early and begin thinking about their future goals. Students learned about academic programs, campus resources, student organizations and career pathways while experiencing daily life on a college campus.
RISECOLLEGE LIFE — More than 200 GEAR UP Maine RISE eighth grade students participated in College Immersion experiences this spring, spending two days and one night on the campuses of Thomas College, the University of Maine and the University of Maine at Fort Kent.
The immersions encouraged students to connect their current learning to future education and career opportunities. By spending time on campus and engaging with college students and staff, participants gained a better understanding of the steps they can take to achieve their goals.
GEAR UP Maine RISE offers College Immersions as part of its broader effort to increase college and career readiness and support postsecondary success for Maine students. The program works with students, families, schools and communities to help students prepare for education and careers beyond high school.
High schools that participated in the immersions: Skowhegan Area Middle School, Katahdin Middle/High School, East Grand School, Fort Fairfield Middle/High School, Woodland Jr./Sr. High School, Madison Jr./Sr. High School and Piscataquis Community Secondary School.
GEAR UP Maine RISE supports more than 5,000 Maine students and families over a seven-year period (2023–30). The program focuses on rural communities, helping students prepare for college and careers while responding to the state’s evolving workforce needs.
Funded through a grant (reference #P334S230003; Marques Thomas, Project Officer) from the U.S. Department of Education to the University of Maine at Farmington and administered by Syntiro, GEAR UP Maine RISE provides mentoring, advising and opportunities that empower Maine’s next generation of leaders.