Meet the Scholar coaches

Christopher Young
I am currently an interventionist / scholar coach for GEAR UP Maine. A federal 7 year grant awarded to Maine to help improve transition to College.  Since my arrival, I have been actively involved with an ongoing research project (Aroostook Scholars) which is actively working with first generation and low income students transitioning to college from six remote Maine High Schools.  I have also been working to bring college transition and issues related to the barriers that first generation students face to partners and stakeholders across the state and nation.  In my position I carry out daily activities associated with a three year research study into college transition and persistence (data collection, virtual and live interventions, and collaborative problem solving).  In addition I am working with GEAR UP Maine on implementing the findings of that work into a large scale program to support students, along with a credentialing program for college access professionals.
Mary Freeman
I am a deeply dedicated educator who believes in improving the future for all learners and having a positive impact on the lives of others is something I greatly value. As the GEAR UP Maine Scholar Coaches Manager, it is my responsibility to lead the development and implementation of a college access and readiness program that works with 7-12 students, school personnel and faculty and staff at Institutions of Higher Education throughout Maine. From experience, building relationships is the cornerstone to an effective program and being detailed oriented, collaborative, innovative, and a creative problem solver are all traits which allow me to excel in relationship building.
Sue Caron
After 26 years in public education I can easily say that the very best part of my career was being an advisor and advocate for learners. Being a scholar coach with GEAR UP Maine allows me to continue with that passion. I'll be here to support and guide our scholars during their transition from high school to college. Being a first generation college student myself, I understand not always knowing where to find answers and how to overcome barriers. I'll be here to help provide answers, help navigate, and to encourage self-advocacy with the scholars I have the privilege to work with. My love of learning, enthusiasm for education, and my excitement to work directly with students makes me happy to go to work everyday!
Monica Spatafore
GEAR UP Maine Scholar Coach Intern
I am currently a student at the University of Maine in Augusta where I am studying to get my Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a concentration in Life Science. My goal in life is to help students learn successfully and to help them follow their dreams. I started working with GEAR UP because I believe students can become their best selves with a little help. As a student who has faced many barriers getting an education, I want others to know that with a little help you can get to where you want to go. Transitioning to college is different for everyone and I want to help students in the process. My role in GEAR UP is to act as a scholar coach to help students achieve their goals, provide support, and help students navigate the path and adjustment to college.