Approximately 75 middle school students from Sullivan County, Washington County and Kingsport City Schools spent a week at East Tennessee State University this summer exploring future careers, developing leadership skills and experiencing college life through the ETSU GEAR UP Summer Camp.

Throughout the weeklong camp, students participated in hands-on activities led by ETSU faculty, staff, students and community partners, giving rising seventh- and eighth-grade students opportunities to discover new interests while building confidence for their educational journeys.

"This week was about opening doors and expanding students' vision for what their future can be," said Liz Carver, associate director of ETSU GEAR UP. "Many of these students are discovering new careers, meeting college faculty and experiencing a university campus in ways they never have before. Our goal is for every student to leave knowing they have an entire community behind them and that no matter which postsecondary path they choose, they have the ability to succeed."

Building skills for success

A highlight of the week, students participated in engaging sessions led by faculty from ETSU's Clemmer College of Education and Human Development.Through interactive lessons, students explored algebra concepts, financial literacy, goal setting, decision-making and teamwork, applying classroom concepts to real-world situations.

By the end of the program, students walked away with new knowledge, greater confidence and a clearer sense of how academic and life skills intersect. At the same time, Clemmer College faculty proved that their expertise extends far beyond higher education classrooms – and that they still have what it takes to inspire and connect with young learners at every stage.

"These experiences are about more than just content—they are about connection," said Dr. Dawn A. Rowe, Quillen Chair of Excellence in Teaching and Learning and interim director of the Center for Rural Education and Development. "We want students to see themselves as capable learners and future leaders, and opportunities like this help make that vision real."

In addition to Rowe, Dr. Jamie Price, chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning Sciences, Dr. Julia Kirk, project manager for the Center for Rural Education and Development, and Dr. Stacey Fisher, professor at ETSU at Sevierville, all took part in the initiative.  

Faculty members noted that the experience was equally meaningful for instructors, who enjoyed returning to a middle school classroom to encourage curiosity, collaboration and confidence among students.

"This opportunity reminded us why we chose this profession," said Price. "Teaching these students reaffirmed that strong relationships, interactive lessons and high expectations make a powerful difference."

Hands-on learning across campus

Students also explored a variety of academic programs and campus resources through interactive experiences designed to spark curiosity and build confidence. Throughout the week, camp participants worked alongside ETSU faculty and staff while taking part in activities that emphasized teamwork, creativity and career exploration.

Campers challenged themselves during team-building activities and zip lining with ETSU Outdoor Adventure and visited the Innovation Commons in the Charles C. Sherrod Library, where they created friendship bracelets, buttons and flashlights. Students also experienced a guitar-building workshop led by faculty in ETSU's Engineering Technology program, offering a unique introduction to the craftsmanship and technology behind instrument making.

Building pathways to postsecondary success

The summer camp was designed to help students build confidence while preparing for future educational and career opportunities. Through academic enrichment, leadership development and hands-on learning, participants strengthened teamwork skills, explored a variety of postsecondary pathways and discovered careers aligned with their interests and talents.

ETSU's GEAR UP program is designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education, particularly in underserved and rural communities. Through partnerships with local school districts, ETSU faculty, staff and community organizations, the program provides students with academic support, college and career exploration, and resources that help them successfully transition from middle school through high school and into higher education.

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