Miami, May 2, 2024 – Miami Dade College’s (MDC) Kendall Campus, in collaboration with event partner Village Church, will host the first Miami GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) College and Career Fair. Designed exclusively for middle and high school students, this unique event will feature interactive sessions, career exploration activities and valuable resources for parents. The fair will take place on Saturday, May 4, at Miami Southridge Senior High School, starting at 11 a.m. The event is free and open to the public.
“Miami GEAR UP is providing wrap-around services to young students at a critical time in their development, including holistic support that addresses academic, social, emotional and health-related needs,” said Dr. Anthony Cruz, MDC Kendall Campus President. “When students feel valued, they become engaged, motivated and empowered to make positive decisions for their future, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed in post-secondary education programs.”
The event will showcase various interactive career exploration activities for middle and high schoolers, as well as free food, games, entertainment and giveaways for the whole family. The fair will also offer resources for parents to prepare their children for a successful future at MDC and beyond. Families can explore various career opportunities related to entrepreneurship, civil service, medicine and more. In addition, there will be a variety of presentations from performing arts programs and discussions with experts.
“Miami GEAR UP is a transformational program that opens the door of opportunity for middle and high school students,” said Rafael Villalobos, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) South Region superintendent. “Miami-Dade County Public Schools enthusiastically supports this program in conjunction with Miami Dade College to foster positive post-secondary outcomes for our students.”
Part of a seven-year grant funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Miami GEAR UP is designed to increase the number of students prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. It offers various services for students, parents, teachers and schools to help make college possible for everyone. The program assists specific M-DCPS schools with services that include academic support, mentoring, career exploration, college tours and field trips. Learn more at https://www.mdc.edu/miamigearup/.
For more information about this event, please contact Miami GEAR UP Director Dr. Lisa Gonzalez at Ldecast1@mdc.edu, 305-237-2591.
WHAT: Miami GEAR UP College and Career Fair
WHEN: Saturday, May 4, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
WHERE: Miami Southridge Senior High School, 19355 S.W. 114th Ave.