Busy
A group of smiling students in maroon McMaster Marauders shirts hold pink bags, standing outdoors in a city square with brick buildings in the background.
July, 19, 2026 to July, 24, 2026
Peter George Centre for Living and Learning

Program Overview

The Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) is excited to launch year three of the Gear Up For Mac: Week In Residence Program (GUFM).

This free RBC-funded initiative invites incoming Black undergraduate students to participate in a transformative six-day, five-night residential experience designed to support a successful transition into university life.

Running from Sunday, July 19 to Friday, July 24, 2026, participants will live on campus at McMaster University while building meaningful connections, exploring campus resources, developing practical university skills, and becoming part of a supportive community before classes begin.

Through a comprehensive and intentional week of programming, students will receive a holistic introduction to university life focused on preparing them academically, socially, and personally for success at McMaster.

Program Details

  • Dates: Sunday, July 19 – Friday, July 24, 2026
  • Check-in: Sunday, July 19 at 1:00 pm
  • Location: Peter George Centre for Living and Learning
  • Duration: 6 days, 5 nights
  • Capacity: 25 incoming Black undergraduate students
  • Cost: Free for selected participants

The program includes accommodation, meals, program materials, and transportation for scheduled activities.

Program Registration

Applications will open on Saturday, May 09, 2026.

Complete the comprehensive application form that addresses all program requirements and demonstrates your commitment to the full week-long experience.

Register here

Application deadline: Friday, June 19, 2026

Selected participants will receive next steps by email, including confirmation forms, information session details, and a welcome package.

Don’t miss this opportunity to start your McMaster journey with confidence, community, and comprehensive support. Join us for an unforgettable week that will set the foundation for your university success!

The Gear Up For Mac Program supports incoming Black students as they move from high school into university. The program creates space for students to build confidence, ask questions, form friendships, and begin their McMaster journey with a support network already in place.

The program focuses on:

  • Academic preparation
  • Financial literacy and aid support
  • Career and employment readiness
  • Community connection
  • Wellness and self-care
  • Social integration
  • Mentorship and student life

Participants will take part in:

  • Academic writing and university skills workshops
  • Mock lectures and tutorial-style learning
  • OSAP, scholarships, and budgeting sessions
  • Career readiness and work-study information
  • Campus tours and resource introductions
  • Hamilton community experiences
  • Social activities, games, music nights, and team challenges
  • Connection with Black student clubs and organizations
  • Mentorship through the Black Student Mentorship Program
  • Family and Friends Celebration on the final day

This program is open to students who:

  • Identify as Black
  • Are recent high school graduates
  • Have accepted their offer (without conditions) to McMaster University for Fall 2026
  • Are entering undergraduate studies in Fall 2026
  • Can commit to the full duration of the program from Sunday, July 19 to Friday, July 24, 2026

Gear Up For Mac gives students the chance to:

  • Meet other incoming Black students before classes begin
  • Build confidence navigating campus and university systems
  • Learn about academic, financial, wellness, and career supports
  • Connect with upper-year Black student mentors
  • Explore McMaster and the Hamilton community
  • Begin university with community, clarity, and support

Parents, guardians, and supporters are an important part of this transition. Selected students and their families will receive program details before the start of the week, including arrival information, packing lists, residence details, safety expectations, and contact information.

Families will also be invited to take part in the closing Family and Friends Celebration on Friday, July 24, 2026.

For questions about the Gear Up For Mac: Week In Residence Program, please contact:

General Inquiries: Black Student Success Centre

Email: bss@mcmaster.ca

Program-specific questions: chehoree@mcmaster.ca
Subject line: Gear Up For Mac Program

Follow @MacBSSC on Instagram