Gear Up

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs

The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative at Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is a student success coaching program designed to support students as they transition to college life. College offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experiences, education, and skills that are essential for achieving both personal and academic goals. GEAR UP helps students navigate this journey successfully.

GEAR UP is a federally funded college access program that helps increase the number of students ready to enter and succeed in college right after high school. Our goal is to boost college mindsets, improve graduation rates, and raise college enrollment through research-based services for students, families, and teachers.

We focus on five key areas to support students in their postsecondary journey:
• Strengthening academic preparation for college success
• Providing intentional, comprehensive advising from middle school through college
• Creating curricular and extra-curricular experiences to guide students’ next steps
• Empowering families to support their students through planning and preparation
• Removing institutional barriers to college access, persistence, degree completion, and transfers

Starting in 2024-2025, Catawba Valley Community College partners with four Catawba County Middle Schools:

Arndt Middle School

Jacobs Fork Middle School

River Bend Middle School

Maiden Middle School

Appalachian GEAR UP offers college-going programs for students and families, academic support, professional development for educators, and more to improve college access in rural western North Carolina.

Our current 7th graders will receive GearUp services and support for the next seven years. Your child will benefit from resources, guidance, and opportunities through middle school, high school, and beyond.

GearUp helps students succeed academically, explore college and career options, and prepare for a bright future. We’re here to support your child every step of the way!

Services for Students