GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a federally funded college access grant administered through Appalachian State University Office of Rural Promise. In partnership with Burke County Public Schools and Western Piedmont Community College, GEAR UP works to increase college and career readiness by bringing postsecondary knowledge, resources, and opportunities directly to students and their families.

Through summer camps, classroom presentations, college visits, Career & College Promise (CCP) opportunities, family engagement events, leadership programs, and other hands-on experiences, GEAR UP helps students explore their futures and build the skills needed for success after high school. While the grade levels served may change throughout the life of the grant, our mission remains the same: to ensure students are informed, prepared, and empowered to pursue postsecondary education and career pathways that align with their goals.

One of the most exciting ways students engage with GEAR UP is through our immersive summer camps. Our popular Cosmetology Camp allows students to learn nail techniques, add fairy hair strands, practice curling and brushing skills, and spend the day learning directly from WPCC instructors and students. At Construction Camp, students work alongside instructors and current students to build and customize their own cornhole boards while exploring careers in the skilled trades. During Criminal Justice Camp, participants test their abilities on portions of the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) course, investigate mock crime scenes, and gain firsthand exposure to careers in law enforcement and public safety. These experiences give students the opportunity to explore potential career paths while developing confidence, skills, and connections with college faculty and students.

Through every program, event, and experience, GEAR UP strives to make college and career exploration engaging, accessible, and attainable for all students. To learn more, go to Appalachian States Gear Up Page, or Gear Up NC.