Nearly 115 rising 10th and 11th grade students from across West Virginia spent four days living and learning on the campus of Marshall University as part of the 2025 GEAR UP summer academy.
The academy, sponsored by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission’s federally funded Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative, provided students with a fully immersive college experience. Participants lived in campus residence halls, attended engaging academic sessions led by Marshall University professors, and took part in leadership development activities designed to strengthen their readiness for college and careers.
“This program gives students a powerful glimpse into their potential future as college students,” said Mallory Carpenter, GUU! Director and Assistant Director of West Virginia GEAR UP at the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. “By staying on a college campus, learning from college professors, and forming bonds with peers across the state, students begin to see themselves in that next chapter of their educational journey. It’s not just about preparing them for college—it’s about showing them they belong there.”
Throughout the week, students explored academic subjects, participated in team building and career exploration sessions, and received valuable mentorship from current college students. These mentors shared their own college experiences and helped students envision pathways to success in higher education and beyond.
Ricki Stewart, a GEAR UP alumnae, former counselor, and current Summer Academy supervisor, remarked on GEAR UP’s impact on her life and the lives of students currently enrolled in the program. “GEAR UP U! is something I look forward to every year. The students get to participate in innovative learning activities and make friendships that last a lifetime. Being a part of their experiences has been remarkable. This program is a way for all students to feel welcomed and inspired. It makes them feel that college and lifelong success are attainable.”
West Virginia GEAR UP serves students in Boone, Clay, Lincoln, Logan, Mason, Mingo, Nicholas, Roane, Wayne, Webster, and Wirt counties, helping them plan and prepare for college through year-round services such as campus visits, financial aid workshops, tutoring, and mentoring.
GEAR UP opens doors for teenagers in West Virginia and gives them hope for what they can achieve,” stated Braxton Nichols, a Roane County High School student and GEAR UP U! participant. “GEAR UP U! is such a good preparation for college and adult life. We learn teamwork, collaboration, and communication—all things you need to be successful after high school.”
For more information about West Virginia GEAR UP and how it supports students and families, visit www.wvgearup.org.