Student-Centered Virtual Mentorship: Through GEAR UP New Mexico’s partnership with Student Success Agency, students can receive monthly messaging about academic college, career, and life success through their freshman year of college. In addition to mentorship, student can also receive unlimited tutoring from SSA specialists and resources about FAFSA completion and scholarships.

As students prepare for college, we are dedicated to helping them with putting their best foot forward as they get ready to embark on this new adventure. Each school site assists students and families with completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which is New Mexico High School students’ ticket to receiving statewide scholarships such as Lottery or Opportunity.

In partnership with FOCUS Training, high school students explore college pathways by visiting colleges and universities across New Mexico. On the bus, educators provide college readiness lessons and team-building activities. On campuses, students are provided a walking tour by college/university staff who showcase their academic programs, student services, resources, and student life on campus. Students reflect upon their experiences and gain a better understanding of what college fit means for them academically, financially, and socially.

In partnership with FOCUS Training, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, and a variety of employers and educators, high school students explore career pathway opportunities across New Mexico by visiting postsecondary training and workplace sites. Students connect with skilled professionals and educators through hands-on experiences that increase their exposure to in-demand and state-priority workforce areas and relevant degree programs, internships, apprenticeships, and volunteerism.

GEAR UP New Mexico celebrates our students graduating high school and moving on to their next steps, whether to a higher education institution or directly into the workforce. Leading up to graduation, each of our partner schools will host an event where the accomplishments of graduating seniors are highlighted as they sign their commitment to their plans following high school.