GEAR UP 4 LA students were introduced to its newest partner, UC Merced, during a conference in which they discovered the support services, academic programs, and the higher education possibilities available to them.
During the UC Merced and You event, held at East Los Angeles College on April 4, students attended a series of breakout workshop sessions focusing on topics such as preparing for a future at UC Merced, financial aid, academic programs and opportunities, and supporting students from start to finish.
Students also heard from current UC Merced students – including GU4LA alumna and West Adams Prep graduate Paola Flores Sanchez – about their experiences.
“It was a very hard transition for me and I was homesick. But I had great support from GEAR UP and UC Merced and by joining groups, I was able to stabilize myself and feel like I was at home.”
Paola Flores Sanchez, a sophomore at UC Merced studying public health
As part of the partnership, the university will support students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 across 35 LAUSD high schools to help increase college and career opportunities. Programs and services that will be offered to students and families include overnight campus visits, a residential program in Yosemite, enrollment coaches, and more.