GEAR UP Maine

06/04/2026

Last month, 8th-grade students gathered at UMFK for an engaging learning immersion full of hands-on activities and fun!

Our 8th Grade Immersion experiences are often a student’s first time on a college campus. These days are designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and help students begin to see themselves in a future they may not have previously imagined.

06/02/2026

Not every summer has to be packed with internships and college tours.

Examples:
- getting a summer job
- resting
- volunteering
- helping family
- learning something new
- exploring careers

It all adds up to the big picture. You got this!

05/28/2026

Short. Real. Helpful. 🎓

College admissions can feel overwhelming, but these free 30-minute workshops break it down into practical, easy-to-understand conversations for students and families.

Join College UnMazed each Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET for live online sessions covering everything from admissions criteria and college visits to essays, financial aid resources, and the Common App.

Free to attend. Helpful for any student planning for life after high school.

Learn more + register: collegeunmazed.com

05/27/2026

Maine educators — this one’s for you. ✏️🍎

Join GEAR UP Maine RISE and Syntiro this August for two days of hands-on learning, practical math strategies, and collaboration with educators from across the state featuring nationally recognized presenter Dr. Bea Moore Luchin.

📍 Hilton Garden Inn, Bangor, Maine
📅 August 18–19, 2026
✅ Free attendance + lodging
💵 $250 stipend per day attended

Register today:
https://tinyurl.com/4743mv8r

05/27/2026

You know what they say… hindsight is 20/20 👀
If you could go back and give your freshman self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Share yours below ⬇️

05/27/2026

Spring is a great time for students to explore college campuses, attend career fairs, and consider future pathways. You can support your student by asking what they are learning about different careers and helping them prepare questions before events or visits.

Encourage your student to follow up after meeting a college representative or employer. A simple thank-you email or conversation can build confidence and open new opportunities. If you would like guidance on upcoming events or how to support your student’s exploration, contact your GEAR UP School Specialist.

05/19/2026

Find Careers Close To Home 📍

Did you know Maine has strong demand in fields like clean energy, agriculture, healthcare, marine trades, and skilled trades?

Want to learn more? Check out the Maine Department of Labor career exploration tools, visit a local community college or trade program, or talk with employers at spring career fairs and job shadow events.

The opportunities are closer than you think. GEAR UP Maine RISE is here to help you find them.

05/16/2026

Check out some of our awesome GEAR UP Maine RISE students from nine schools across the Katahdin and Washington County regions getting hands-on experience in the healthcare field via UMaine Augusta!

Students learned about nursing, dental health, mental health and human services, medical laboratory technology, and veterinary technology.

05/14/2026

Career Fair Game Plan

Spring career fairs are your chance to explore what’s out there. Even if you’re not job hunting yet, you can ask employers:
• What makes someone successful in this field?
• What skills matter most in this field?
• What education or training is needed?
• Are there summer opportunities?

One short conversation could open a door!

05/12/2026

In the Field News!

Students from Stearns and Katahdin Middle and High Schools recently toured Davis Brothers Inc. These students got a firsthand look at training and career pathways in stainless steel process piping and fabrication.