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.
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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.
June
Writing a Strong Personal Statement
Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 | Register Here
Are you interested in learning more about how to write a strong personal statement during college application submissions? Join us in this informative session to learn tips and tricks to look out for in the development of your statements!
Admissions 101: What Colleges are Looking for
Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14-18 | Register Here
Join us for an informative session demystifying the college admissions process and clarifying what colleges consider when reviewing applications. Gain insight into the importance of challenging coursework, extracurricular activities, and more to showcase your full story and personal strengths.
July
Building a College Ready Mindset
Thursday, July 9, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | 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.
Leadership & Service in College
Thursday, July 23, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 14 - 18 & Parents | Register Here
Students learn how leadership can take many forms, from student government to service opportunities. This workshops highlights the value of engaging with peers, building collaboration skills, and using leadership as a tool for influence and service. Students will leave with practical ideas for how to get involved on a college campus and how leadership roles connect to career preparation.
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.
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 optons 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.
UC Application Process
Saturday, August 22, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Applying for Scholarships & Letters of Recommendation
Saturday, September 12, 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.
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.
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.
June
Zombie Preparedness
Thursday, June 4, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Ages 8-14 | Register Here
Zombies are coming! Join us to learn how to best prepare for the zombie apocalypse and other major disasters by exploring tools and resources. Then develop and practice an emergency plan with your friends and family to ensure everyone knows what to do in a crisis.
Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Balboa Library | Ages 14-25 | Register Here
Interested in learning more about how to care for and maintain an automobile? Join us in this informative session to develop a foundation in automotive maintenance and safety!
Cooking for Teens
Thursday, June 11, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | Ages 14-18 | Register Here
Have you been wanting to try out new recipes from around the world? Join us in learning easy and healthy cooking habits from different countries!
July
Whole-Body Wellness
Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Rancho Penasquitos Library | Ages 14+ | Register Here
Join us for an informative and interactive workshop about how our daily habits affect our whole body system, including digestive and circulatory systems. Get tips, tricks, and an easy recipe that promote a healthy lifestyle.
Healthy Cooking: Snacks
Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Carmel Valley Library | Ages 12 - 18 | Register Here
Looking for new recipes to try? Join us for a fun hands-on workshop to learn how to cook healthy snacks.
Cooking Ideas: Breakfast
Wednesday, July 29, 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!
Cooking Ideas: Dinner
Friday, July 31, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Mountain View/Beckwourth 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 dinner with healthy options!
August
Little Bites, Big Growth: Nutritious Snacks
Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 3:30 - 4:30 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!
Back to School Survival: School Lunch Ideas
Friday, August 21, 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.
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, incling 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.
Cooking Ideas: Dinner
Thursday, September 17, 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!
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!
Partners
These programs are funded in full or in part by Carnegie Corporation of New York’s national Libraries as Pillars of Education and Democracy Program.