College Preparation & Life Management Skills
Prepare for your future! DiscoverU’s Admit One: College Prep and life management skills programs support students, parents, and emerging adults with planning for higher education and gaining useful life skills. Events are updated quarterly.
Quick links:
Admit One: College Prep
From navigating the college admissions process and applying for financial aid, College Prep programs give young adults the tools to reach their academic goals.
August
College Life Budgeting
Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 & Parents | Register Here
Get real about money! Join us for a hands-on workshop focusing on creating and understanding a student budget, managing costs, and avoiding debt. Plan your next steps with us as you level up your financial literacy.
Community College Connect
Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Balboa Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Explore your college options! Join us for an informative and hands-on workshop focusing on community colleges! Learn how 2-year colleges offer affordable, flexible options -- and are great pathways to 4-year schools. Get your questions answered by experienced educators as you plan your next steps with confidence and knowledge.
SAT Test Prep (Session 1)
Saturdays, August 8, 2026 - September 5, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 | Register Here
Get ready for the SAT! In this 5-day course, students will get the scoop on the digital SAT, review and practice key subject material, and learn test-taking techniques, time management skills, and strategies to tackle different types of questions. Students will also receive free study materials. This is a 5-day course held once a week.
Show Me the Money: Options for Funding College
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Carmel Mountain Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Learn how to pay for your future! This interactive workshop unpacks grants, scholarships, FAFSA, and other financial aid options. Get your questions answered by experienced educators and prepare yourself to plan your next steps with knowledge and confidence.
Show Me the Money: Options for Funding College
Thursday, August 13, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Learn how to pay for your future! This interactive workshop unpacks grants, scholarships, FAFSA, and other financial aid options. Get your questions answered by experienced educators and prepare yourself to plan your next steps with knowledge and confidence.
Transitioning from High School to College
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
College-Rolando Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Make your transition to college an easy one! Join us for an informative presentation focusing on preparing students for the academic, social, and personal transitions that come with entering college. Topics include time management, effective study strategies, importance of campus involvement, and the value of building supportive relationships. Emphasize is placed on self-advocacy and wellness practices that help students balance academics with personal growth.
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Transfer Students
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 | 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Prepare for your college transfer! In this informative presentation, learn about the unique financial aid landscape for transfer students. Topics include federal and state aid options as well as scholarships available specifically for transfer applicants. Students will also learn about Point Loma Nazarene University's institutional aid and strategies for making a private university education affordable.
Admissions 101
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Mission Valley Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Prepare for college admissions! This program demystifies the college admissions process and clarifies what colleges consider when reviewing applications. Gain insight into the importance of academic performance, challenging coursework, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and community engagement. This session highlights the concept of holistic admissions, encouraging students to present their full story and personal strengths.
Navigating the College Application Process
Saturday, August 29, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library | Ages 14 - 18 | Register Here
Get ready for college application season! Understand how to approach the college application process, including the different types of applications, such as the UC, CSU, Common Application, and private college. Be prepared for important timelines, required documents, and strategies for staying organized throughout the process. Emphasis is placed on self-advocacy and effectively showcasing academic, extracurricular, and personal strengths.
UC Application Process
Saturday, August 29, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Get the scoop on the UC application process! Understand the UC system's college application requirements, deadlines, and what to expect when filling it out. Get all your questions answered by UC representatives.
September
Admissions 101
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Prepare for college admissions! This program demystifies the college admissions process and clarifies what colleges consider when reviewing applications. Gain insight into the importance of academic performance, challenging coursework, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and community engagement. This session highlights the concept of holistic admissions, encouraging students to present their full story and personal strengths.
Majors & Minors
Thursday, September 3, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Not sure what college major or minors best fit your career goals? Join us for an interactive session to explore how your unique interests translate into college majors and careers.
UC Application Process
Saturday, September 5, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Carmel Mountain Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 | Register Here
Get the scoop on the UC application process! Understand the UC system's college application requirements, deadlines, and what to expect when filling it out. Get all your questions answered by UC representatives.
FAFSA Frenzy
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Balboa Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Prepare to apply FAFSA -- Free Application for Federal Student Aid! Get step-by-step help for completing your application, including what documents you need, what to watch for, and tips on avoiding mistakes. This hands-on workshop will help you make a smooth transition to college.
Navigating the College Application Process
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Linda Vista Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Get ready for college application season! Understand how to approach the college application process, including the different types of applications, such as the UC, CSU, Common Application, and private college. Be prepared for important timelines, required documents, and strategies for staying organized throughout the process. Emphasis is placed on self-advocacy and effectively showcasing academic, extracurricular, and personal strengths.
Overview of the UC System
Thursday, September 24, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Discover the University of California system! Take a tour of each campus and what makes each unique, including academic programs, campus life and traditions, and admissions requirements. Find the UC that best fits your academic and career goals and get all your questions answered by UC representatives and students.
Applying for Scholarships & Letters of Recommendation
Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Get help with college finances! Learn how to find and look for in scholarships, get tips on how to stand out on your scholarship applications, and what to consider when asking for letters of recommendation.
October
UC Application Process
October 1, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 & Parents | Register Here
Get the scoop on the UC application process! Understand the UC system's college application requirements, deadlines, and what to expect when filling it out. Get all your questions answered by UC representatives.
Show Me the Money: Options for Funding College
October 3, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Mission Valley Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Learn how to pay for your future! This interactive workshop unpacks grants, scholarships, FAFSA, and other financial aid options. Get your questions answered by experienced educators and prepare yourself to plan your next steps with knowledge and confidence.
SAT Test Prep (Session 2)
Tuesdays, October 6, 2026 - November 3, 2026 | 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Valencia Park/Malcolm X Library - Teen Center | Ages 14 - 18 | Register Here
Get ready for the SAT! In this 5-day course, students will get the scoop on the digital SAT, review and practice key subject material, and learn test-taking techniques, time management skills, and strategies to tackle different types of questions. Students will also receive free study materials. This is a 5-day course held once a week. This is an in-person program. Registration is required.
Writing a Strong Personal Statement or College Essay
October 10, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Linda Vista Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Level up your writing skills for college and beyond! In this hands-on workshop, brainstorm and develop meaningful and authentic personal statements by reflecting on personal experiences, leadership, and resilience. Learn strategies and organization tips while examining examples of strong narratives. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of writing college admissions essays that meet expectations while showcasing their voice and values.
UCSD Info Session
October 15, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Discover the University of California San Diego and what sets it apart from the rest of the UC campuses! Take a tour of UCSD, explore its academic programs, campus life, and admissions requirements. Get your questions answered by UCSD representatives.
Basics of College Readiness: A - G Requirements
October 29, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Make sure you're on track for college! Join us to get the scoop on what high school subject requirements you need for college, especially for the UC system. Get tips and your questions answered on how to plan for your college goals.
November
UC Application Process
November 5, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 & Parents | Register Here
Get the scoop on the UC application process! Understand the UC system's college application requirements, deadlines, and what to expect when filling it out. Get all your questions answered by UC representatives.
UC Application Process
November 7, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Get the scoop on the UC application process! Understand the UC system's college application requirements, deadlines, and what to expect when filling it out. Get all your questions answered by UC representatives.
Financial Aid & Scholarships: Making College Affordable
November 14, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Linda Vista Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Make college affordable! In this interactive workshop, gain an understanding of financial aid, including FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), California Dream Act, Cal Grants, institutional scholarships, and private scholarships, to be able to make informed financial decisions. Learn practical strategies for applying to scholarships, budgeting for college expenses, and identifying trustworthy resources. Emphasis is placed on financial literacy as an essential life skill.
UC Application Process
November 16, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 14 - 18 | Register Here
Get the scoop on the UC application process! Understand the UC system's college application requirements, deadlines, and what to expect when filling it out. Get all your questions answered by UC representatives.
Preparing for your Senior Year
November 19, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Get organized for college application season! Know what to expect during your senior year of high school as you navigate the UC system's college application process. Understand the requirements, markdown deadlines, and get your questions answered by UC representatives.
December
Applying for Scholarships & Letters of Recommendation
December 3, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 & Parents | Register Here
Get help with college finances! Learn how to find and look for in scholarships, get tips on how to stand out on your scholarship applications, and what to consider when asking for letters of recommendation.
Community College Connect
December 5, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Explore your college options! Join us for an informative and hands-on workshop focusing on community colleges! Learn how 2-year colleges offer affordable, flexible options -- and are great pathways to 4-year schools. Get your questions answered by experienced educators as you plan your next steps with confidence and knowledge.
Building a College Ready Mindset
December 8, 2026 | 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Prepare yourself for college life! Join us for hands-on activities focused on setting personal goals, developing strategies to manage setbacks, and embracing continuous improvement to develop your resilience, adaptability, and self-confidence to take on challenges and turn them into learning opportunities.
Life Management Skills
Life Management Skills programs cover a variety of topics, including managing personal finances, fostering well-being, and learning how to cook, to prepare young adults for successful futures.
August
Little Bites, Big Growth: Nutritious Snacks
Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to get ideas and healthy recipes for youth.
Cooking Ideas: Snacks
Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Carmel Mountain Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 12 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to make snacks with healthy options!
Cooking for Teens
Thursday, August 13, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center (2nd floor) | Ages 12 - 18 | Register Here
Interested in trying out new recipes from around the world? Get hands-on as you explore healthy cooking from different countries!
Healthy Cooking: 5 Ingredients or Less
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook a healthy meal with five ingredients or less.
Cooking Ideas: Dessert
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8-14 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook dessert with healthy options!
Roommate Etiquette
Saturday, August 22, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
University Community Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Moving in with a roommate can be difficult. Join us for an informative workshop to explore what it takes to be a thoughtful roommate, including establishing expectations upfront, boundaries, courtesy, respect, settling disputes, cleaning, dividing chores, separating food, and creating roommate agreements.
Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
College-Rolando Library | Ages 14-25 | Register Here
Pop your hood and get to know your car! Join us for a hands-on experience as you learn basic automotive maintenance, how to handle emergency situations, and how to save money at the mechanic. Participants may have an opportunity to receive a free car inspection as part of the program. No experience necessary.
Mental Health: Understanding Emotions & Thoughts
Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Join us for an insightful and fascinating workshop about mental health, covering the brain and neurotransmitters as well as the importance of Brain Foods for Better Moods. By the end of the workshop, you'll be better prepared with practical tips, tools, and a healthy recipe to improve your mental wellbeing.
Say Sorry, Mean It
Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Level up your communication skills! Practice making sincere apologies and understanding how to repair relationships. Emphasis is placed on respectful communication, collaboration, organization, and emotional intelligence to equip participants with skills that shape success in every stage of life.
Self Care: Taking Care of You
Friday, August 28, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Mountain View/Beckwourth Library | Ages 8 - 12 | Register Here
Take a moment for yourself! Join us for an informative workshop about the importance of self-care on physical and mental health. Take home practical tips, tools, and a recipe for a healthier lifestyle.
Summer Energy: Food for Active Lives
Saturday, August 29, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Boost your energy with healthy foods! Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn healthy recipes to boost your energy.
September
Healthy Cooking
Thursday, September 3, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
College-Rolando Library | Ages 8 - 12 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook with healthy options!
Cooking Ideas: Snacks
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to make snacks with healthy options!
Back to School Survival: School Lunch Ideas
Thursday, September 10, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to make snacks with healthy options!
Cooking for Teens
Thursday, September 10, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center (2nd floor) | Ages 12 - 18 | Register Here
Interested in trying out new recipes from around the world? Get hands-on as you explore healthy cooking from different countries!
Study Snacks: Food to Help with Focus
Friday, September 11, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Need a snack as you learn? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to get ideas and healthy recipes to boost your brain power.
Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Pop your hood and get to know your car! Join us for a hands-on experience as you learn basic automotive maintenance, how to handle emergency situations, and how to save money at the mechanic. Participants may have an opportunity to receive a free car inspection as part of the program.
Be a Great Friend
Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Explore what makes a strong friendship and how to build trust, empathy, and fun! This hands-on workshop equips participants with heart, habits, and human connection skills that shape success in every stage of life. Emphasis is placed on respectful communication, collaboration, organization, and emotional intelligence.
Back to School Survival: School Lunch Ideas
Friday, September 17, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Looking for healthy options to pack for school lunches? Join us to cook a healthy recipe as you get ideas on how to integrate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your family's diet.
Nutrition Basics
Friday, September 18, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Mountain View/Beckwourth Library | Ages 8 - 12 | Register Here
You are what you eat. Join us for an informative workshop to learn the basics of nutrition and easy ways you can incorporate healthier choices into your lifestyle.
Automotive Repair Basics
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Maintenance doesn't have to be scary. Dive deeper into maintenance, learn how to use tools, and perform minor repairs yourself, with this hands-on automotive workshop. Participants may have an opportunity to receive minor repairs, and a free car inspection. Prior experience or participation in Automotive Maintenance & Safety is encouraged.
Healthy Cooking
Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Rancho Penasquitos Library | Ages 18+ | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook with healthy options!
October
Zombie Preparedness
October 1, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
College-Rolando Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
A fun way to learn about disaster preparedness with a zombie-themed flare! This class helps you with tools to create and practice an emergency plan so you and your family will know what to do in a crisis.
Cooking Ideas: Lunch
October 7, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook lunch with healthy options!
Cooking for Teens
October 8, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | Ages 12 - 18 | Register Here
Interested in trying out new recipes from around the world? Get hands-on as you explore healthy cooking from different countries!
Study Snacks: Food to Help with Focus
October 8, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Need a snack as you learn? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to get ideas and healthy recipes to boost your brain power.
Sleep Management: Why Rest is Best
October 9, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Get a good night's rest! Join us for an insightful workshop about our sleep cycles and circadian rhythms. Take home practical tips, tools, and a recipe for a healthier lifestyle.
Banking Basics
October 10, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Pacific Beach Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Get your finances in order! In this workshop, learn the basics of banking to be ready to make informed financial decisions. Topics include the differences between a bank, credit union, and digital banking; checking and saving accounts; the difference between debit and credit cards; identifying loans versus predatory lending; and understanding what good credit means.
Cooking Ideas: Dinner
October 13, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook dinner with healthy options!
Automotive Maintenance & Safety
October 17, 2026 | 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Pop your hood and get to know your car! Join us for a hands-on experience as you learn basic automotive maintenance, how to handle emergency situations, and how to save money at the mechanic. Participants may have an opportunity to receive a free car inspection as part of the program.
Healthy Cooking: Candy Making
October 21, 2026 | 4:00 -5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to make candy.
Say It Clearly: Learning Public Speaking
October 22, 2026 | 4:00 -5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Level up your communication skills! Practice public speaking and confident introductions with fun improv and games. Emphasis is placed on respectful communication, collaboration, organization, and emotional intelligence to equip participants with skills that shape success in every stage of life.
Zombie Preparedness
October 23, 2026 | 4:00 -5:00 p.m.
Mountain View/Beckwourth Library | Ages 8 - 12 | Register Here
A fun way to learn about disaster preparedness with a zombie-themed flare! This class helps you with tools to create and practice an emergency plan so you and your family will know what to do in a crisis.
Sweet Alternatives: Smart Sugar Choices
October 23, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Be smart with sugar! In this hands-on workshop, explore your healthy options and alternatives to sweets and sugar while learning a fun recipe.
Mental Health: Understanding Emotions & Thoughts
October 24, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Rancho Penasquitos Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Join us for an insightful and fascinating workshop about mental health, covering the brain and neurotransmitters as well as the importance of Brain Foods for Better Moods. By the end of the workshop, you'll be better prepared with practical tips, tools, and a healthy recipe to improve your mental wellbeing.
Automotive Repair Basics
October 24, 2026 | 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Maintenance doesn't have to be scary. Dive deeper into maintenance, learn how to use tools, and perform minor repairs yourself, with this hands-on automotive workshop. Participants may have an opportunity to receive minor repairs, and a free car inspection. Prior experience or participation in Automotive Maintenance & Safety is encouraged.
Zombie Preparedness
October 24, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
A fun way to learn about disaster preparedness with a zombie-themed flare! This class helps you with tools to create and practice an emergency plan so you and your family will know what to do in a crisis.
Zombie Preparedness
October 27, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
A fun way to learn about disaster preparedness with a zombie-themed flare! This class helps you with tools to create and practice an emergency plan so you and your family will know what to do in a crisis.
Banking Basics
October 31, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
University Community Library | Ages 14 - 18 | Register Here
Get your finances in order! In this workshop, learn the basics of banking to be ready to make informed financial decisions. Topics include the differences between a bank, credit union, and digital banking; checking and saving accounts; the difference between debit and credit cards; identifying loans versus predatory lending; and understanding what good credit means.
November
Cooking for Teens & College-Age Adults
November 7, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Join us for a hands-on workshop to learn quick and easy healthy recipes for the busy teen or college-age adults on the go.
Little Bites, Big Growth: Nutritious Snacks
November 7, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to get ideas and healthy recipes for youth.
Mental Health: Understanding Emotions & Thoughts
November 10, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Carmel Valley Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Join us for an insightful and fascinating workshop about mental health, covering the brain and neurotransmitters as well as the importance of Brain Foods for Better Moods. By the end of the workshop, you'll be better prepared with practical tips, tools, and a healthy recipe to improve your mental wellbeing.
Cooking for Teens
November 12, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | Ages 12 - 18 | Register Here
Interested in trying out new recipes from around the world? Get hands-on as you explore healthy cooking from different countries!
Confidence without Bragging
November 12, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Level up your communication skills! Learn and practice how to share your strengths humbly while still standing tall in who you are. Emphasis is placed on respectful communication, collaboration, organization, and emotional intelligence to equip participants with skills that shape success in every stage of life.
Finances & Budgeting
November 17, 2026 | 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Set yourself up for financial success! Get the scoop on realistically budgetting for any income, including both full-time and part-time employment. Examine and understand pay stubs and their different sections, the purpose of forms W-4, W-2, and 1099, and how federal taxes, state taxes, and other deductions (i.e. benefits) affect your pay.
Healthy Cooking: Pumpkin Cooking
November 18, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Join us to learn healthier eating and cooking habits with new recipes. Learn to cook with Pumpkins to celebrate Thanksgiving together! A program designed to promote more whole food and healthier options for everyday life.
Healthy Cooking: Candy Making
November 20, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Mountain View/Beckwourth Library | Ages 12 - 14 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to make candy.
Self Care: Taking Care of You
November 21, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Rancho Penasquitos Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Take a moment for yourself! Join us for an informative workshop about the importance of self-care on physical and mental health. Take home practical tips, tools, and a recipe for a healthier lifestyle.
December
Sweet Alternatives: Smart Sugar Choices
December 5, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
Be smart with sugar! In this hands-on workshop, explore your healthy options and alternatives to sweets and sugar while learning a fun recipe.
Cooking for Teens
December 10, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | Ages 12 - 18 | Register Here
Interested in trying out new recipes from around the world? Get hands-on as you explore healthy cooking from different countries!
Body Language Basics
December 10, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Level up your communication skills! Explore how posture, tone, and eye contact communicate confidence in this hands-on workshop. Emphasis is placed on respectful communication, collaboration, organization, and emotional intelligence to equip participants with skills that shape success in every stage of life.
Nutrition Basics
December 11, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 12 - 25 | Register Here
You are what you eat. Join us for an informative workshop to learn the basics of nutrition and easy ways you can incorporate healthier choices into your lifestyle.
Automotive Maintenance & Safety
December 12, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
University Community Library | Ages 14 - 18 | Register Here
Pop your hood and get to know your car! Join us for a hands-on experience as you learn basic automotive maintenance, how to handle emergency situations, and how to save money at the mechanic. Participants may have an opportunity to receive a free car inspection as part of the program. No experience necessary.
Banking Basics
December 15, 2026 | 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library | Ages 14 - 25 | Register Here
Get your finances in order! In this workshop, learn the basics of banking to be ready to make informed financial decisions. Topics include the differences between a bank, credit union, and digital banking; checking and saving accounts; the difference between debit and credit cards; identifying loans versus predatory lending; and understanding what good credit means.
Healthy Cooking: Holiday Cooking
December 16, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Ages 8 - 14 | Register Here
Join us to learn healthier eating and cooking habits with new recipes. Learn to do some Holiday Cooking to celebrate the holiday season! A program designed to promote more whole food and healthier options for everyday life.
Finances & Budgeting
December 17, 2026 | 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8 - 25 | Register Here
Set yourself up for financial success! Get the scoop on realistically budgetting for any income, including both full-time and part-time employment. Examine and understand pay stubs and their different sections, the purpose of forms W-4, W-2, and 1099, and how federal taxes, state taxes, and other deductions (i.e. benefits) affect your pay.
Nutrition Basics
December 19, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Rancho Penasquitos Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
You are what you eat. Join us for an informative workshop to learn the basics of nutrition and easy ways you can incorporate healthier choices into your lifestyle.
Partners
These programs are funded in full or in part by the Andrew Carnegie Foundation, formerly Carnegie Corporation of New York, national Libraries as Pillars of Education and Democracy Program.