GEAR UP stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, and aims to increase college going culture and the number of students succeeding in their efforts to pursue higher education. About twenty students visited the Inouye Regional Center for the day to meet with NOAA staff and learn about various programs, science fair ideas, and career paths. 

Shanelle participated virtually while students gathered in a conference room. She shared her own college experience and pathway to NOAA; background information on marine debris and the Marine Debris Program; and discussed science fair ideas around microplastic/microfiber analysis, marine debris monitoring, and waste audits. We are looking forward to possible science fair projects inspired by this one-NOAA effort!

For more information, please contact Shanelle.Naone@noaa.gov.