PROGRAM PHOTO ALBUM

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BLOG POST FOR JUNE 17

We had a fun start to the Summer Springboard program here on the campus of UC Berkeley!

Students from across the country arrived on campus, eager to begin two transformative weeks of exploration and discovery. After settling into the residence halls and meeting their roommates and mentors, the group began forming fast connections, fueled by shared excitement, curiosity and a stunning backdrop of one of the world’s leading academic institutions. The energy on campus is already buzzing as students start to feel at home and dive into this unique experience.

Looking ahead, our Berkeley students are gearing up for an immersive schedule of hands-on academic courses led by dynamic instructors, unforgettable excursions around the Bay Area, and engaging True You sessions designed to help them learn more about themselves and their goals. Whether walking through iconic campus landmarks or discussing big ideas in the classroom, it’s clear this group is ready to make the most of every opportunity. We can’t wait to see how the next two weeks unfold!

Here are some highlights from the start of the program:

  • Successful check in with families flying in from around the world and we met a couple cute dogs as well!
  • First day of class!
  • Berkeley campus tour is always a highlight, especially seeing the stadium and Sturdy the Bear!
  • Club Fair – from Soiree planning to Sports or Dance Club, everyone found something to join, even Dungeons & Dragons!
  • Having fun with our new friends during evening activities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BLOG POST FOR JUNE 20

Summer Springboard is in full swing here in Berkeley!

Our students have just wrapped up an incredible first week filled with discovery, challenge and connection. They’ve dived into their first True You workshop, exploring their passions and values while gaining fresh insights into who they are and where they want to go. The hands-on academic courses have sparked new ideas and inspired big thinking, pushing students to think creatively and critically in their chosen fields.

Outside the classroom, the first excursions brought exciting opportunities to explore, making memories and building friendships that will last long after the program ends. It’s been inspiring to see students embrace new challenges, support each other, and grow both academically and personally.

With so much already accomplished, the energy is high as we head into Week 2. More immersive courses, deeper self-discovery through academic workshops, and unforgettable excursions await. The final week promises to be just as exciting, packed with new opportunities to learn, connect and prepare for the next steps on their college and career journeys. Stay tuned for more highlights as the adventure continues!

Here are some highlights from the first week of the program:

    • Students began their college exploration journey this week in their first college readiness workshops: Finance 101, Speaking with Confidence, College Admissions, and Leadership.
    • For all those budding, and also diehard Cal fans, visiting the California Memorial Stadium, seeing “Sturdy” the bear and walking around campus on a guided tour was definitely a highlight for the students and staff.
    • Wednesday was our excursion day and students had the chance to visit Bay Area businesses like Makelab, Founders Inc, Google HQ Visitor Center, Berkeley’s Trapped Ion Lab and UCSF Center for Memory and Aging. One big highlight was having the Physics & Quantum Computing students stop by the former office of Robert Oppenheimer.
    • Students began thinking about why they chose to go on this college exploration journey and reflect on what they’re hoping to accomplish over these two weeks in their first session of True You.
    • Our classes continue to go well and the work the students are doing is incredible! Design Thinking and Rapid Prototyping is hard at work on their first few 3D projects. Students in Emergency Medicine have learned about evaluating and diagnosing patients, and have earned their CPR and first aid certification. Students in Business & Entrepreneurship are developing their business ideas and beginning their work on the business plan to pitch to investors. The students in all of the classes are working hard and having fun learning all about their field. We can’t wait to head to the San Francisco Ferry Building on Friday!

 

BLOG POST FOR JUNE 25

That’s a wrap on a memorable Summer Springboard experience!

What a journey it’s been on campus. After two incredible weeks of hands-on academic courses, inspiring True You workshops and adventurous weekend excursions, our students have crossed the finish line of an unforgettable Summer Springboard program. They’ve explored new ideas, challenged themselves and made friendships that will last long after they leave campus.

Throughout the program, students gained valuable insight into their college major interests and career aspirations, while reflecting on the kind of learners and future professionals they want to become. From engaging classroom discussions to real-world experiences beyond campus, this summer has been all about growth, discovery and setting the foundation for what’s next.

We’re so proud of everything they’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see where their journeys take them. Here’s to new beginnings and exciting futures ahead!

Here are some highlights from the past weekend:

  • On Friday students visited the Ferry Building! They explored the local food scene, boutiques, and soaked in the sun on the ride back!
  • After we got back from the Ferry Building, we spent our evening activity painting banners for our animal mentor groups. Our students got really creative, and they all turned out amazing!
  • On Saturday, students went on a tour through San Francisco. We started our day at the Golden Gate Bridge and ended the day at Twin Peaks enjoying the beautiful view. P.S. We were so lucky that Karl the fog was taking a nap!
  • On Sunday, students went to Great America for a boat load of fun!