Program Overview

Introduction to the USU STARS GEAR UP Program

The USU STARS GEAR UP program is a federally funded grant program at Utah State University (USU) that serves students in under-resourced schools throughout urban and rural Utah from seventh grade through their first year of post-secondary education. The program aims to increase the number of students from low-income communities who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.

Program Details

• The program provides students with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) readiness experiences in partnership with USU's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.
• USU STARS GEAR UP has a strong history of working with faculty in the College of Arts & Sciences to offer STEM summer camps to students from GEAR UP partner schools across Utah.
• The program targets middle school students in their first year, with the goal of building a foundation for their future success.
• Activities include laboratory experiments, such as introducing jellyfish genes into bacteria, which helps students connect to what they are learning and exposes them to key concepts in modern biology.

Program Objectives

• Increase the number of students from low-income communities who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.
• Provide STEM enrichment opportunities to under-resourced Utah students.
• Help students navigate challenges such as finding programs and applying for federal aid and scholarships.

Program Structure

• GEAR UP site coordinators and college advisers work with students to help them navigate challenges.
• The program includes college visits, tutoring, financial aid nights, and college and career-related tours.
• USU STARS GEAR UP plans to offer more STEM enrichment opportunities to under-resourced Utah students.

Benefits

• The program gives students an opportunity to try new things and build their confidence, which is vital during early adolescence.
• It provides students with hands-on STEM experience and exposes them to professional-grade equipment and university labs.
• The program helps students learn about science in everyday life and introduces them to potential career paths, such as food sciences.

Conclusion

The USU STARS GEAR UP program is a valuable initiative that provides under-resourced students with the opportunity to explore STEM fields and prepares them for postsecondary education. By offering hands-on experiences, mentorship, and guidance, the program aims to increase the number of students from low-income communities who succeed in higher education and pursue careers in STEM fields.