The Class of 2025: Oregon GEAR UP Seniors Ready for Their Next Steps
"I feel that GEAR UP has made more students want to continue their education." Jazzmen Cline, Senior, Gilchrist High School Class of 2025
The Class of 2025 has graduated, and Oregon GEAR UP seniors are ready for their next steps. Whether they're heading to community colleges, universities, trade schools, or apprenticeships, they're all set for success.
What "College" Means
"College" is any education or training beyond high school. This includes community colleges, universities, career and trade schools, and on-the-job training like apprenticeships. These paths lead to valuable certificates, licenses, or degrees that open doors to a variety of career opportunities, enabling students to secure stable, well-paying jobs and contribute positively to their communities.
Pathways to Success
Our students come from different parts of Oregon and are pursuing various pathways. Success can look different for each of them, but they all share the determination to achieve their goals.
Meet Our Hardworking Student: Jazzmen Cline
Meet one of our hardworking students who is pursuing higher education:
Jazzmen Cline
High School: Gilchrist High School
College: Pacific University in Forest Grove
Area of study: Psychology
What's something that's changed at your school since GEAR UP arrived?
"GEAR UP has changed a lot throughout Gilchrist. I feel that GEAR UP has made more students want to continue their education."
Tell us about an activity or event that contributed to your decision to continue education beyond high school.
"There were multiple people and activities that sparked my interest in furthering my education, but one person in particular was my science teacher during my freshman year. Ms. Whittle took my class on a trip to Oregon Institute of Technology and I got the privilege to hold a human brain and that made me want to pursue my education in healthcare, mainly focusing on the psychological aspect."
Building a Better Oregon
Jazzmen and other GEAR UP students like her are not just achieving personal success, they're becoming constructive citizens who will contribute to Oregon's growth and prosperity. Through the support of Oregon GEAR UP, they're discovering new opportunities and building brighter futures.
What is GEAR UP?
GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a federally funded program designed to increase college readiness and success for students from low-income families. Simply put, we help Oregon’s young people, especially those from families facing tough times, gain the skills and support they need to build a strong future. We ensure federal resources are put to work locally, opening doors to education and training for good jobs and self-reliance right here in our communities.
Investing in Our Youth Builds Brighter Futures and Strengthens Our State
Is someone you know preparing for their next step after high school? Every determined Oregonian deserves a clear path. For practical information and resources, head to Oregon Goes To College. As a statewide initiative of Oregon GEAR UP, it’s your one-stop-shop for getting ready for college.