GEAR UP Massachusetts

Did you know a majority of our North High GEAR UP students are first-generation students? That means they’re going to be the first in their families to go to college and earn a degree! Check out last year’s seniors in this video as we gear up to support our new set of first-gen seniors for National First-Gen Day! #FirstGenProud #HigherEd #CollegeBound #NationalFirstGenDay

?? Meet the Team Behind GEAR UP MA! ?? Krista Callinan, GEAR UP Financial Literacy Coordinator ?? With passion and expert knowledge, we believe every student has the potential to shine. With some guidance, you’ll find the path that’s right for your future. ?? Krista says her superpower is organizing big events & multitasking! ?? We couldn’t be more proud of our team and the dedication they bring to every day. #TeamIntroduction #MeetTheTeam #BehindTheScenes #CompanyCulture #EmployeeSpotlight #GEARUPworks #MAGEARUP

?? This is where success starts! ???? Another great MCAC event at Dean Tech and Holyoke High School! #SuccessStartsHere #MCACEvents #DeanTech #HolyokeHighSchool #CommunityEngagement #CareerSuccess #GEARUPMA #MAGEARUP #GEARUPWorks

#LearningFromEachOther

?? Reminder for Parents & Students! When completing the FAFSA, it’s not just the student who needs an FSA ID—the parent(s) also needs one! ?? ?? The student will need their FSA ID to log in and sign the FAFSA. ?? The parent will need theirs to sign and submit the form too! But what if parents are divorced or separated? Check out this information from MEFA to figure out who needs an FSA ID! Don’t wait until the last minute! Create your FSA IDs today! ?? https://lnkd.in/eemscDu #FinancialAid #FAFSA2024 #CollegeReady #FSAID #GEARUPMA #GEARUPWorks

Our MCAC events are in full swing! This event allows students the chance to talk to colleges, and sometimes get accepted on the spot! Recently 260 students participated in a two day MCAC event at Roger L Putnam Vocational-Technical High School. Students were able to ask questions, both of colleges and career opportunities and explore their options!

?? We were honored when the Department of Higher Education Commissioner, Noe Ortega, visited Lawrence High School and watched and discussed with Juniors the importance of filling out their FSA IDs. #Education #FSAID #StudentSuccess #CollegePrep #DHECommissioner #FutureLeaders #EmpowerStudents #GEARUPWorks #MAGEARUP #GEARUPMA

?? Meet the Team Behind GEAR UP MA! ?? ?? With diverse backgrounds and a commitment to our students, we love to help explore their options and discover their passions. We believe that every student has a unique journey, and our team is here to help you navigate yours! ?? We caught up with Robert Dais and asked “What is the most rewarding experience you've had with GEAR UP? “ “Meeting GU alumni who've graduated & are living successful lives!” Robert says his superpower is enthusiasm, positivity & joy for other's success! ?? We couldn’t be more proud of our team and the dedication they bring to every day. #TeamIntroduction #MeetTheTeam #BehindTheScenes #CompanyCulture #EmployeeSpotlight #GEARUPworks #MAGEARUP

Bristol employees Alicia Lewis and Michaela Barcelos share their advice and words of encouragement for first-generation college students. ? Slide 1 – Alicia Lewis?"Growing up in the environment that I did; college never felt attainable nor was it ever presented as an option. After having my daughter at 19, I realized I wanted more for myself, and college became that pathway. Today, I am incredibly proud to be the first person in my family to earn a college degree.?I believe knowledge and deep understanding are sacred and essential.?My advice: Challenge the narratives you've been told. Rewrite your story and make space for yourself to fully realize your potential. There is room for all of us to succeed." ? Slide 2 – Michaela Barcelos “I believe that being a?first-generation?student?means having the courage, ambition, and perseverance to overcome socio-economic barriers by pursuing higher education.?It is important for?first-generation?students to connect with their advisor often. When I was in college, I would meet with my advisor regarding my course options, my path to graduation, internship opportunities, as well as job opportunities.?I also recommend that?students find a study buddy, and/or form a study group with classmates. This can help them learn from others, as well as form friendships!” ? Thank you both for sharing!

?? Attention Students and Families! Planning to fill out the FAFSA? Don’t forget: Both the student AND one or both parent(s) need to create an FSA ID! ? ?? The FSA ID is used to sign the FAFSA electronically and access important information. ?? Tip: The student’s FSA ID must be created first, then the parent can create theirs! Check out this info from MEFA to figure out who needs an FSA ID! Make sure to create your FSA ID early to avoid any delays! ? ?? Get started here: https://lnkd.in/eemscDu #FAFSA #FSAID #FinancialAid #CollegeBound