June was a bustling month at University of the Pacific's Stockton Campus as high school students from California and around the globe engaged in the Pacific Summer High School Institute.
This two-week pre-college program delivered immersive, hands-on learning experiences, from drone piloting to water sample analysis, and musical mixing.
"We're always doing experiments and different types of data analysis, and I've been learning a lot. The experiments are usually outside of the classroom, so it’s really engaging,” said Enoch Mak, a student from Hong Kong who attended the Biology of Cities program.
More than 1,600 students participated in the institute over two sessions. Compared to 13 program options in 2022, this year's event saw a significant expansion to over 50. Offerings included courses from the university's library and all nine of its schools and colleges, including the McGeorge School of Law and Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry.
"Our faculty and a few renowned guest instructors put together exceptional programs," stated Balint Sztaray, Program Director and Professor of Chemistry. He emphasized the unique opportunity for students to gain experience in the same cutting-edge research labs and studios used by the university's college students, an advantage that could set them apart in college applications.
The experience was transformative for many students, giving them a taste of college life and inspiring them to explore potential career paths. Rising senior Sabina Colangelo, who participated in the Health Care Professions program, commented, "I was thinking nurse practitioner, but now I'm leaning more towards physician assistant, which I never thought I would do. Same with athletic trainer. I didn't even know you could do that."
Skills learned in the program have broad applications across various fields, boosting students' confidence and persuasiveness. Cary Bricker, McGeorge School of Law Professor who taught the "Be a Trial Lawyer in Court" program, highlighted the transferability of these skills to other career options.
Beyond academics, the students had ample opportunities to participate in leisure activities like rock climbing, swimming, laser tag tournaments, and s'more roasting. Student Life led more than 300 activities for high schoolers over the two sessions.
Parents have already noticed significant growth in their children. Katie Daniels, whose daughter Madyson attended the women’s leadership program, said, "She called me and said, ‘This class is a little bit different. I’m learning there are different ways to be a leader. This class is showing me different perspectives.'"
Ceres High School student Ayleen Bustos had her worldview expanded, saying, "It just opened my eyes that the world is so much bigger than I thought it was."
The Pacific Summer High School Institute has, without a doubt, enriched its students, providing them with the tools and perspectives to broaden their horizons as they approach college life and beyond. To read the full article check it out on Pacific's page.
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