Summer Residential Program

A Summer Experience Designed for Student Growth

Program Overview

Upward Bound’s Summer Residential Program offers students a supportive, immersive introduction to college life. Over six weeks on the CSU Monterey Bay campus, participants take part in academic instruction, enrichment activities and community-building experiences that help them grow socially, academically and personally. The program is structured to build confidence, encourage independence and support students as they prepare for life after high school.

What Students Experience

The program follows a structured schedule that blends college-prep coursework with hands-on learning and activities that promote collaboration and leadership. Students attend classes taught at a pre-college level, develop study and time-management skills and receive guidance from Upward Bound staff throughout the experience.

Each summer includes a variety of co-curricular activities such as outdoor adventure programming, team-building sessions, etiquette workshops, cultural excursions and Upward Bound’s annual “UB Has Talent” showcase. These experiences help students explore interests, build community and strengthen the skills needed for future academic success.

One-Week Southern California University Tour

Students who complete the Summer Residential Program may be invited to participate in a one-week tour of universities and colleges across Southern California. The tour introduces students to a range of campuses and academic programs and offers insight into the college selection process.

In addition to campus visits, the tour includes stops at cultural and historic locations, giving students the opportunity to explore communities beyond their own. Lodging, meals and group transportation are provided. For many participants, this experience plays a meaningful role in shaping their educational goals and future plans.