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BLOG POST FOR JULY 28

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

Students from across the country arrived in sunny San Diego, ready to kick off two exciting weeks of learning, growth and connection. After checking into their residence halls and meeting their roommates and mentors, students quickly began building new friendships, energized by the coastal breeze, shared goals, and the stunning UC San Diego campus nestled near the Pacific Ocean. The atmosphere is already vibrant as everyone starts settling in and embracing this new adventure.

Looking ahead, our UC San Diego students are preparing for an engaging lineup of hands-on academic courses taught by passionate instructors, inspiring excursions around the greater San Diego area, and True You sessions focused on self-discovery and future pathways.

Whether soaking up the sun during outdoor activities or collaborating in classrooms with panoramic views, this group is poised to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way. We’re excited to see all the memories and growth that the next two weeks will bring!

Here are some highlights from the start of the program:

• The session started off with a pizza party where residential and commuter students made new friends from all over the world, including China!
• Students bonded by creating mentor group posters where they worked as a team to show off their artistic side.
• The students got to know the campus by participating in a scavenger hunt that took them to some unique UCSD landmarks!
• Monday was the first day of class and the students are abuzz about their upcoming projects and excursions.
• The basketball court next to the SSB office is utilized at every free moment in the schedule!

BLOG POST FOR JULY 31

Week 1 at UC San Diego is finished. What a start!

Our students just wrapped an action-packed first week full of fresh ideas, new friends and real discovery. They kicked off with their first True You workshop, digging into what drives them and starting to map out their futures. Academic courses got minds buzzing, with hands-on projects that challenged them to think big and get creative.

The first excursions showed off the best of San Diego: fun, sun and plenty of inspiration. Friendships are forming fast, and the energy on campus is electric. 

With Week 2 ahead, the excitement is building even more. More courses, deeper self-exploration and unforgettable experiences are coming up. The best is yet to come!

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

• The Fundamentals of Engineering class visited the Qualcomm Institute to learn about nanotechnology and then attended a panel to hear more about future careers!
• The Kinesiology and Physical Therapy class visited the Scripps Encinitas Rehabilitation Center where they learned all about the latest and greatest equipment used in clinical practice.
• The Biotechnology students visited Crinetics Pharmaceuticals where they talked with the scientists and learned more about the manufacturing process.
• The Marine Biology students dove straight into learning about anatomy with hands on dissections in the classroom and then deepened their knowledge with an educational visit to the Birch Aquarium.
• The students participated in a field day where they competed in various games including a plank contest (6 minutes was the record!) and a speed math competition!

BLOG POST FOR AUGUST 7

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!