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GEAR UP and ETS seniors inspire MassEdCO Board

Two high school seniors, who are members of our Worcester programs, recently spoke to the MassEdCO Board, reflecting on their access program experiences. Their presentations, enthusiasm and aspirations were inspirational.

Worcester GEAR UP Director Taryn Tomkins introduced Anna Johnson, a member of GEAR UP at North High School. Anna, who is from Liberia, will attend Worcester State University next year as a biomedical science major. Because of help from GEAR UP, she will have completed enough advance placement credits to enter as a sophomore, making her goal of becoming a pediatrician that much closer. Her aspiration came as a result of volunteer work she did last year in Liberia, at the suggestion of her mother. There, she worked with special needs children. She expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support and acceptance she (and her brother) have received from GEAR UP, which was above and beyond what staff were required to do. (Anna was featured last year on our website for filing her FAFSA early.

Educational Talent Search (ETS) Advisor Frank Murphy introduced Joel Adade, a member of ETS at Burncoat High School in Worcester. Joel said both he and his sister have benefited from ETS and CSI programs. He especially appreciated help with deciding on colleges to which he should apply and the application and financial aid processes. He also credited MassEdCO staff with going the extra mile for him. As a child in Ghana, Joel was ill and received medical attention despite corruption in the medical system. He will attend Hamilton College in the fall on a Posse Foundation full scholarship, where he will major in biology and minor in psychology in order to enter a career where he can help people.

Release Date: 
May 24, 2018