Seventy-four students in grades 8-10 explored algebra, engineering and college life through CSUSB’s sixth annual Summer Algebra Institute. Hosted by CSUSB’s Cal-SOAP, the program combined personalized math instruction with hands-on projects and field trips designed to build confidence and prepare students for academic success.
After discovering CSUSB’s Upward Bound program as a teenager, Alejandra Esquivel-Casillas became the first in her family to attend college and earned two degrees from Cal State San Bernardino. Today, she helps connect Inland Empire students with the same pre-college resources and opportunities that changed her life.
CSUSB’s Office of Pre-College Programs, through Cal-SOAP and Educational Talent Search, launched its inaugural IRL: College in Real Life Road Trip, a residential experience designed to help local high school seniors explore higher education pathways and prepare for college through campus tours, workshops, admissions and financial aid guidance, and mentorship.
Led by CSUSB’s Office of Pre-College Programs, the four-week dual enrollment program provided 189 high school students the opportunity to earn college credit while experiencing college life. During the program, students received academic support, mentorship, and college and career preparation.
Inland Empire high school students explored entrepreneurship and cybersecurity this summer through two immersive programs at Cal State San Bernardino. The WITH (Workforce Innovation Technology Hubs) Cyber Camp and UpStarters Discovery Camp gave students the opportunity to experience college life while developing technical and leadership skills.
High school students explored cybersecurity and artificial intelligence through hands-on learning, industry mentorship and campus life at CSUSB’s 2026 WITH Cyber Camp. The annual Center for Cyber and AI program introduced campers to in-demand careers while building technical skills, confidence and community.
Kurt Manio, director of CSUSB’s First Star Academy and associate director of Cal-SOAP, was recognized with the First Star Brilliance Award for his exceptional leadership, commitment and impact at the First Star 25th Anniversary Celebration — an inspiring evening of storytelling, recognition and reflection on a legacy of service to youth in foster care.
The California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP) hosted two summer programs that empowered local school students with college and career readiness skills: the Summer Algebra Institute and the Pre-College In Real Life program.
High school students from across the Inland Empire participated in two immersive, residential programs at Cal State San Bernardino focused on innovation, leadership and technology. The UpStarters Discovery Camp and WITH (Workforce Innovation Technology Hubs) Cyber Camp brought learning to life through hands-on workshops, dynamic evening events and a deep dive into college life.