Workshops for middle school students help them think about the future, enhance their awareness of careers and postsecondary education, and provide information about high school course selection, postsecondary options, and financial aid. Presentations for high school students cover career decision-making, college awareness, and the financial aid process. High school students can also attend VSAC-sponsored college and career fairs and get help with financial aid forms. Adults receive assistance, individually or in groups, with career decision-making, education planning, college selection, and financial aid. Participants also visit college campuses, receive academic help and referrals to special programs, and get assistance with college and financial aid applications.
Parent involvement is a critical component of the program.
GEAR UP also provides mentoring services and, for eligible students, a scholarship upon completion of high school. As is the case with the general adult population, clients eligible for this program receive assistance with career decision-making, education planning, college selection, and financial aid. Help is provided on an individual basis or through workshops. Under a contract with the Department of Social Welfare, Outreach provides career and postsecondary planning assistance to all Reach Up clients pursuing higher education. A. Direct service to participants is provided by more than 30 counselors who live in the communities they serve.