News release Public Information Office   SLU 10880   Hammond, LA 70402   phone: 985-549-2341   fax: 985-549-2061 publicinfo@selu.edu Spring 2004 news releases Public Information home News archive Contact: Rene Abadie Date: 7/23/04   Click on image for publication quality photo GEAR UP STUDENTS DISCUSS HEALTH CAREERS – Virginia Pellegrin of the Area Health Education Center addresses ninth graders about careers in the health field at the summer transitional camp sponsored by Southeastern Louisiana University’s GEAR UP  program. More than 20 Hammond children participated in the three-week camp where they received orientations designed to prepare them for algebra, physical science, chemistry and English. Southeastern’s GEAR UP, which stands for “Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs,” is funded by a $1.2 million U.S. Department of Education grant. The program is designed to improve academic achievement and career aspirations among students during critical pre-high school years.