Gavin Bartholomew played several roles at Blue Mountain High School, including tight end, defensive end, punter and he was the team's quarterback as a senior. Bartholomew was rated Pennsylvania’s 36th best overall prospect by ESPN.
As a freshman at Pitt, Bartholomew played in all 14 games, starting 8 and compiled 28 receptions for 326 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was named a second team Freshman All-American by the Athletic and the Pro Football Network. As a sophomore last season, Bartholomew regressed but played in all 13 games, starting 10 and finished the season with 21 catches for 283 yards and 2 touchdowns.
In 2023, Bartholomew saw 8 games of action, hauling in 18 catches for 326 yards and a touchdown. His season was cut short by an injury which required a walking boot. This injury is believed to be one of the main reasons he has decided to return to Pitt for the 2024 season.