Dates
Week 1: September 9 – 13, 2024 (Virtual)
Week 2: September 16 – 20, 2024 (On campus)
This Summer, GEAR UP RISE UP teamed up with GEAR UP Achievers and the University of Washington’s Ethnic Cultural Center to launch an innovative bridge program for incoming GEAR UP freshman students. The program started two weeks before the start of Fall semester. This intensive program offered students a comprehensive blend of academic preparation, personal development, and community-building activities—all designed to ensure a smooth transition to college life.
Week One: Preparing for University-Level Math
The program kicked off with a virtual first week focused on math preparation. Designed to strengthen students’ skills and build confidence in rigorous university-level math. The virtual sessions covered advanced concepts, study strategies, and problem-solving techniques. UW’s Instructional Center provided hands-on support, ensuring students were equipped for their first year in university.
Week Two: Math Prep and Personal Enrichment On-Campus
The second week was at the University of Washington Seattle campus, during students’ move-in week. They continued with the math prep course in an in-person university classroom environment. Alongside the math workshops, students also worked on the personal enrichment portion of the program. They were offered a series of workshops on time management, financial literacy, goal-setting, and personal wellness. Exposing them to resources on campus where they can find support in those areas. These sessions helped students learn to balance academics with personal growth and self-care, building skills they will rely on throughout their college careers.
Student Feedback
One of the primary goals of this program was also to build GEAR UP students’ sense of community on campus. Being a first-year college student can be difficult to navigate, but with the help of everyone who took part in these efforts, we were able to give students a warm welcome to college and create an inclusive environment for them. We would like to give thanks to all our students who participated. Also, a special shoutout to the GEAR UP Achievers team, Instructional Center, ECC and everyone who took part in welcoming and preparing our students.
GEAR UP RISE UP Bridge student participants where asked, “What was their favorite part of the program?” Their top responses included:
“Being able to connect with others and learning more about resources.”
“All the information and seeing other students in the same situation.”
“I liked meeting new friends and getting to know the instructors and navigators who are willing to help me in my times of need.”
“Honestly everything. But I enjoyed the in-person workshops quite a bit.”
Stay tuned for more updates on GEAR UP RISE UP’s programs and how we’re working to make a difference in students’ lives.
