aACADEMIC PROGRAMS
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GEAR UP Program

preparing... connecting
expanding horizons...

GEAR UP(Gaining Early Awareness & Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a federally funded partnership program between Binghamton University and the Binghamton City School District (BCSD). The program trains BU students to be mentors or tutors to BCSD students in middle school.

How to Start
· Complete an application. Applications are available in the OCC office, UUW 204.

· Once these are completed, you will be contracted by the GEAR UP coordinator at the school of your choice. The Coordinator will make an appointment to meet with you, give you a tour of the school, assign you to a mentee or tutee, and set up a regular schedule for you.

For more information, stop in the OCC office, UUW-204, or call 777-4039. You may contact GEAR UP Recruiting and Training Coordinator, Monica Perry, at mperry@binghamton.edu

Tutor Description
Tutors assist with a range of academic subjects. Tutors may also assist students who are English Language Learners. All sessions take place in supervised school settings such as classrooms, study halls, and the lunchroom.

Mentor Description
Mentors form a one-one relationship with a student in order to facilitate the student's educational, social, and personal growth and serve as social and academic role models. They assist skill building (e.g., organizational and study skills), share their experiences and insights as a college student, and encourage mentees to continue their studies. Mentors are required to work with a student for a minimum of two semesters.

University students also choose to participate in GEAR UP as a volunteer or an intern.

Volunteers work at least one hour each week with the BCSD students.

Interns earn 2 credits with a letter grade by working at least 5 hours each week with the BCSD students. They also attend weekly seminars where related issues are discussed.

***Attendance to the advising sessions for this program is NOT required.***

To Apply go to the Application Page

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