During the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning has presented many students with difficulties. If you need help with your homework or with college prep, you can find tutors and other resources at GEAR UP. The following is an interview with GEAR UP tutor Stella Ray:

What is GEAR UP?

Ray: GEAR UP is a college access program. We focus on helping students prepare for college by helping them graduate high school and helping them apply for scholarships and colleges. We offer tutoring, ACT prep and ACT waivers, career exploration, and various workshops and other opportunities.

What is your favorite part of GU?

Ray: My favorite part of GEAR UP is helping students explore their interests for college and beyond. I want students to be aware of the various opportunities available to them. But most importantly, I love the relationships I’ve built with students and my time spent in the classroom.

Why did you get involved in GU?

Ray: As a tutor, I got involved with GEAR UP to gain experience working with youth in an academic setting. I’m a college student now, and I have plans to become a high school teacher, so I think my work with GEAR UP is a great experience for my career goals. I also love working with youth, y’all are so brilliant and energizing to be around!

How can students get involved in GU?

Ray: Students can get involved with GEAR UP by filling out an application! Check out our social media for more information too. We’re @westhighgearup on Instagram, and Gear UP West High on Facebook. We also have an independent study class that students can take if they would like consistent tutoring or help with homework, just ask your counselor to be put in the class!

Application link: https://www.uvu.edu/gearup/about/form-grant-2017-2024.html

How does GU work during a normal year and how is it working this year?

Ray: During a normal year, we offer several in-person college-related workshops, career exploration field trips, and college visits. We also have a physical classroom at West where our independent study class is held and where students can drop in for tutoring before and after school.

With this switch to online, we’ve got a virtual classroom on Zoom. Students in our independent study class log on to receive tutoring and help with FAFSA, ACT, and college applications. Students who are not enrolled in our class can also drop in for tutoring Monday – Friday 8 am-4 pm. We are also offering virtual workshops on zoom, usually held on Wednesdays or in the evenings.

What should students know about GU?

Ray: Students should know that we are here to support them! This year has been especially tough and we are here to provide support in any way we can. We have tutors for all subjects and mentors to help connect you to resources and opportunities! We can help you find opportunities unique to you. We can connect you with scholarships for undocumented or DACAmented students, we have workshops for families in English and Spanish, and we can help connect you to resources you may need during this time.