GEAR UP Houston - Gaining Early Awarness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs

College-bound Junior, Amber Sander

Amber Sander, a junior at NHS, has been involved in U-Prep, a college preparatory program, since the 7th grade. She enjoys the U-Prep experience because it provides opportunities for Amber to do community service and opens doors for her in the post high school educational arena. She is also involved in YZUP, a mentoring and leadership program for juniors at NHS. She attended a camp this summer with her fellow classmates and students from Memorial High School to help her become a better leader and mentor to 9th graders. The camp was fun and insightful for Amber and she looks forward to the rewards that the experience will give her. Amber is proud that she has earned the right to go on every college trip since 7th grade and appreciates what the GEARUP grant has done for her and her peers. Amber is our Fall 2007 “In the Spotlight” student. Congratulations, Amber!

Program helps prepare students for college
Spring Woods High freshmen GEAR UP for future

read the Houston Chronicle Story here

This month’s Gear Up spotlight shines on Steven Johnson. As a distinguished leader in our school, Steven strives to participate in many activities as preparation for his future.

Working as a staff writer for Northbrook’s premiere newspaper, the El Dorado, Steven researches and creates stories for the publication. His article covering Gear Up activities was recently featured on the front page. A second piece that focuses on the new NHS football program was also included in the first edition.

Steven is also involved in other activities at Northbrook High School. He actively participates in all Gear Up activities, including attending a summer camp program at Rice University. Taking classes at one of Houston’s finest universities caused Steven to grasp a glimpse of his future. Not only does Steven play basketball for the Raiders, he also acts as a role model, mentoring a third-grade student at Hollibrook Elementary.

Steven attributes his success to his older brother. His brother is constantly motivating him to be creative and active in his life, and Steven describes him as being an inspiration to achieve future successes.

A number of Gear Up Cohort students and guests attended the Young Women Energized Careers in Energy program for High School Girls at the Hess Club. The program was sponsored by The Women’s Energy Network of Houston. Area professional women engaged with students to present the benefits of careers in geology, engineering, legal, public relations, accounted and other disciplines. Participating students are eligible for scholarship opportunities.

Amanda is a GEARUP cohort student who has risen from being a shy, uninvolved student to a service minded, very involved 10th grader. She volunteers for most every service opportunity presented and does her work not only without complaint but with enthusiasm. She is considerate and respectful when dealing with adults and always appropriate when “hanging” with friends. Amanda exemplifies not only our GEARUP character but also the making a difference character ed. criteria. She has begun mentoring a 3rd grader at Hollibrook Elementary as well and is excited about having a younger student to influence. One can find Amanda staying after school daily to help the sophomore class sponsor, Nancy Avila, with fundraising planning or she can be found on Saturdays selling concessions at a volleyball tournament. Her parents come to every parent meeting offered and are proud of Amanda. Without question, Amanda Gonzalez “makes a difference” at Northbrook High School.