Academic Support Services

GEAR UP CT provides comprehensive academic support services designed to promote student achievement and persistence in postsecondary education. The program is committed to equipping students with the resources, skills, and guidance necessary to reach their full academic potential.

In collaboration with the Academic Advisement Center at CT State Community College Manchester, GEAR UP CT assists students in identifying their academic needs and connecting them with appropriate tutoring and campus-based support services.

SAT Support & Boot Camps

Throughout the year students will have the opportunity to participate in SAT Boot Camps along with SAT Prep class support leading up to the big test! Engaging, expert instructors help students become prepared and confident with time-management and test-taking strategies. Students will learn key content for success and pacing and effective guessing strategies for every type of question. A workbook will be provided for each student with exercises to complete during the event and with additional practice leading up to test day.

National GEAR UP Week

National GEAR UP Week is an opportunity for GEAR UP programs nation-wide to share the large positive impact GEAR UP has locally. It's a time to engage all stakeholders - local, state and federal elected officials; funders; partners; and media - to display GEAR UP accomplishments and to encourage involvement in services to students and families. GEAR UP East Hartford celebrates National GEAR UP Week with events that help build the East Hartford GEAR UP community and help students progress towards their life-long dream of going to college!

After-School Programming & Mentoring

In partnership with East Hartford Public Schools, GEAR UP East Hartford has prioritized SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) programming to help students learn further to cope and deal with their stress and worries. While creating safe in-person and virtual learning environments for the students, staff present a variety of lessons on self-awareness, relationship skills, and growth mindset, to name a few, while building a supportive space to encourage discussion and an opportunity to practice these evolving skills. Academic support including homework assistance, time management tools and activities. Mentoring with Diligence Training for the Gear Up Young Male Mentoring Program(YMMP) is scheduled weekly during the after-school sessions along with a variety of after-school activity options to all GEAR UP students. Check out our events calendar for more information about GEAR UP after-school programming at your school!

College & Career Exposure

GEAR UP CT at CT State Community College Manchester is committed to supporting students in their postsecondary journey by providing meaningful opportunities to explore college and career pathways. These experiences help students connect their academic studies to future goals while gaining a deeper understanding of postsecondary expectations and workforce readiness.

In collaboration with the CT State Community College Manchester Career Services Center, GEAR UP CT provides students with targeted programming designed to enhance career exploration and readiness. Through this partnership, students gain access to professional development resources, career advising, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for success beyond the classroom.

College Application & Enrollment

GEAR UP CT at CT State Community College Manchester supports students in navigating the college application and enrollment process as part of their postsecondary journey. This initiative focuses on developing the knowledge and skills necessary for a smooth and successful transition into higher education.

In collaboration with Guided Pathways Advisors and Enrollment & Recruitment Services at CT State Manchester, GEAR UP CT provides comprehensive guidance to help students explore postsecondary options, identify institutions that align with their goals, and understand key admission requirements and application procedures.

Social-Emotional Support

GEAR UP CT at CT State Community College Manchester recognizes that student success extends beyond academics. The program is committed to supporting the social and emotional development of students as they navigate their postsecondary journey and adjust to the demands of college / workforce life.

Through individualized check-ins, workshops, and campus engagement opportunities, GEAR UP CT fosters self-awareness, resilience, and a sense of belonging, helping students manage stress, build confidence, and strengthen their overall well-being.

By connecting students to campus resources—such as Counseling Services, Student Activities, and peer support networks—GEARUP CT ensures that participants have the emotional and social foundation needed to thrive academically, personally, and professionally throughout their college experience.

Family Engagement

Families play a fundamental role in their children's education and achievement of their educational objectives. GEAR UP offers a variety of family workshops and college & career events open to all families in the program. Whether you're looking for strategies to save for your child's education or methods to encourage them as they prepare to leave home for college, GEAR UP East Hartford is here to help.

GEAR UP Services