Summer Springboard

Middle School Psychology & Neuroscience

ON THE CAMPUS OF UC SAN DIEGO

THIS PROGRAM COMBINES ACADEMIC COURSES, INTERACTIVE LABS, AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES TO GIVE MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS A SUPPORTIVE, FUN, AND ENRICHING SUMMER EXPERIENCE.

THIS IS A ONE-WEEK PROGRAM WHERE YOU’LL FOCUS ON ONE COURSE FOR THE ENTIRE DURATION.

Middle School Psychology & Neuroscience

  • Examine how the mind and brain connect to human behavior through immersive academic exercises.
  • Delve into human behavior questions using hands-on activities for deeper experiential understanding.
  • Evaluate treatment approaches for various mental health issues affecting millions worldwide.
  • Dissect real brain specimens, like sheep brains and cow spinal cords, to learn neuroscience first-hand.
  • Meet and interact with clinical psychologists, neuroscientists, and other industry professionals.
  • Participate in interactive lab experiments to explore brain function, memory, and decision-making processes.

Summer Springboard

Middle School Psychology & Neuroscience

About This Course

This program is a jam-packed week for middle school students interested in being introduced to the field of psychology.

This program offers students who are interested in pursuing a career in psychology and neuroscience an exploration of how psychologists study and understand how people work.

Students will explore social dynamics, emotions, personality, the nature of beliefs and the relationship between the mind, brain and body.

TOPICS YOU'LL EXPLORE

Hands-on Learning

Explore marine ecosystems and anatomy through hands-on dissections, field activities like tidepooling and aquarium visits, while collaborating with marine biology professionals.

RESOURCES

Course Infosheet

Click here to view or download the printable infosheet for this course.

Program Catalog

Click here to request our catalog to learn more about our summer programs and courses.

Campus Page

Click here to view the website page for this campus and learn more.

“The experience was very fun. The classes were well prepared and organized. The excursions planned were cool as well. Overall, the experience of this camp was amazing!”

– Alexis W. | SSB Middle School Alumni Student

Summer Springboard

Middle School Psychology & Neuroscience

Meet Your Instructor

Dr. Roldan is a Doctor in Clinical Psychology, an educator, TEDx speaker, writer, and researcher known for making psychology engaging, relatable, and impactful for students and families. Recognized in the San Diego community and beyond, she has been featured at Comic-Con, San Diego Weekly, and other publications, where she explores the psychology of pop culture and how it shapes the way students think, feel, and connect.

With a dynamic and approachable style, Dr. Roldan brings a unique blend of science and storytelling to her work. She translates complex psychological concepts into practical tools, often using familiar media such as films, superheroes, and gaming to help students build emotional awareness, resilience, and confidence, while giving parents meaningful ways to support their growth.

Her work is grounded in evidence-based research and spans across age groups, from children to adolescents and college students. Known for her energy, warmth, and engaging presence, Dr. Roldan creates spaces where learning feels accessible, relevant, and even fun.

Dr. Roldan is passionate about helping students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while empowering families with the insight and tools to support them every step of the way.

DR. SARA ROLDAN

Summer Springboard

Middle School Psychology & Neuroscience

Dates & Tuition

2026 Dates
Session 1: June 28 – July 3, 2026
Session 2: July 5 – July 10, 2026
Session 3: July 12 – July 17, 2026

Click here to enroll in this course using our online enrollment form.

Tuition
 Residential Tuition:$2,998
 Commuter Tuition: $1,598

Tuition Protection Plan: Allows for cancellation for any reason up until the day of the program.

Location
 City: San Diego
 State: California
Campus: UC San Diego

Summer Springboard programs are not run by our campus partners (with the exception of Cal Poly and NYSID which are run in partnership with SSB). Universities and their affiliated departments and partners do not control and are not responsible or liable in any manner for any part of the Summer Springboard program.