More than 130 area high school students attended two summer programs hosted by the California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP) at Cal State San Bernardino that aimed to increase their college and career readiness skills.

The Summer Algebra Institute, funded by the California State University Chancellor’s Office, offered a five-week academic experience for rising seventh through 11th graders. Taking place at both CSUSB and Eisenhower High School in Rialto, the program helped 70 students enhance their algebra and quantitative reasoning abilities, key skills vital for success in both high school and college.

Led by credentialed math instructors, the curriculum combined engaging, interactive lessons with the EdReady platform, an adaptive tool that personalized learning based on each student’s progress. In addition to math instruction, students participated in hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) activities that encouraged creativity, collaboration and critical thinking.

To complement classroom learning, students participated in Field Trip Fridays, featuring educational and recreational outings to destinations such as Cinemark Theater, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Big Al’s and the CSUSB campus. During their campus visit, students toured university facilities, participated in the CSUSB Leadership Challenge Center, and participated in activities at Coyote Lanes in the Santos Manuel Student Union North.

Field Trip Fridays concluded with a fun-filled visit to Knott’s Berry Farm, where students took part in the Energy In Motion STEM Tour and explored the science behind roller coasters. The Summer Algebra Institute not only boosted students’ math proficiency but also sparked enthusiasm for learning and provided a glimpse into future educational opportunities.

The second summer program, the Pre-College In Real Life (IRL), offered an immersive college experience for area high school students. From June 22 to 26, more than 60 rising high school seniors participated in the no-cost, four-day residential program designed to immerse students in college life and equip them for success after high school.

Hosted by Cal-SOAP and the TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program, Pre-College IRL gave participants the opportunity to experience life as college students: staying in dorms, eating in the student commons and attending workshops in university lecture halls. They participated in a comprehensive series of college readiness workshops that offered detailed guidance on college applications, financial aid, campus resources, academic support services, networking opportunities and career planning. Students also received personalized feedback on their college essays and explored senior year topics such as California’s four higher education systems and career pathway planning.

In addition to academic prep, students attended sessions on mental health and wellness, career development and leadership. They also created vision boards and participated in team-building exercises designed to build community and self-confidence. A highlight was the “Plus Me Project” storytelling workshop, which empowered students to share their personal journeys. Students also participated in a financial literacy simulation, “Bite of Reality,” presented by Thinkwise Credit Union, where they navigated real-life budgeting challenges through an app-based experience.

For more information on the Office of Pre-College Programs and upcoming events, visit the CSUSB Office of Pre-College Programs website.