Summer Bridge

The Project Avance Summer Bridge program is a 2-week program for junior and senior high school students considering a degree in a STEM field, intended to provide academic readiness for college life. Students admitted to the program will experience classes curated to prepare them for algebra, chemistry, and biology for science majors, in addition to campus tours, advising opportunities, Faculty and Industry Speakers, hands-on activities, engaging with Peer Advisors, and off-campus industry tours. These informative industry tours will take place at local sites to introduce students to potential careers in STEM fields. 

Requirements

The Project Avance Summer Bridge Program invites students who meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Enrolled in Dual Credit courses through Palo Alto College
  • Admitted to PAC for the Fall 2025 semester and plan to major in a STEM field
  • Feel they could use additional chemistry and biology support, or help to become connected to resources and support

Dates:

The 2025 Project Avance Summer Bridge Program will take place in person, Monday through Thursday, July 7 – 17. Students are expected to be available during the day to attend all scheduled classes and activities.

Cost:

The Project Avance Summer Bridge Program is free.

Palo Alto College is a commuter college, and therefore, this program is not an overnight program. Transportation to and from the Project Avance Summer Bridge Program is not provided, but transportation will be provided for off-campus industry tours.

Students will be provided with a temporary parking permit if necessary.

Registration for Summer Bridge will open February 2026

When is Summer Bridge Camp?

The 2026 Project Avance Summer Bridge Program will take place in person, Monday through Wednesday, June 1 – 10. Students are expected to be available during the day to attend all scheduled classes and activities.

How do I apply?

Applications will be open starting in January 2026. Space is limited. You can submit an application for Summer Bridge HERE.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Students will be notified and selected before the end of March with a tentative schedule so students can make any necessary arrangements.

What forms do I have to complete to attend Summer Bridge?

Students must complete the registration, Emergency Info, medical release, Behavior Agreement, and Right of Consent forms provided once they are accepted into the program.

What are Industry Tours?

Industry Tours will be part of the schedule at local and regional sites are intended to begin introducing students to potential careers in the field. 

Where do I park? Is parking free?

Transportation to and from the Project Avance Summer Bridge Program is not provided, but transportation will be provided for off-campus industry tours. Students will be provided with a temporary parking permit if necessary. Parking is free and open unless specifically labeled as reserved for staff. We ask that registrants park in Lot 11 for the Project Avance Summer Bridge.

Where will Project Avance Summer Bridge be held?

Project Avance Summer Bridge will be at Palo Alto College in person.

What should I bring to Summer Bridge?

All supplies will be provided to complete any Project Avance Summer Bridge activities. Lunch will be provided. We encourage everyone to bring a refillable water bottle and sunblock during the Industry Tours.

How should I dress?

Dress comfortably in business casual attire. There will be some outdoor walking portions during each session and during the Industry Tours.

Will lunch be provided?

Lunch will be provided. You are welcome to bring lunch or buy lunch.

Will transportation be provided?

Students and their caregivers are responsible for their own transportation to and from Palo Alto College. Transportation will be provided to all Industry Tours from Palo Alto College.

If I’m running late, what should I do?

Report to Palo Alto College in the Rio Grande Building, Room 181A. Staff will direct you.

Expectations

All those participating in Project Avance Summer Bridge are expected to comply with the Palo Alto Code of Conduct.

How do I get in contact with staff during the off-campus site visits?

Contact Information

Project Avance

210-486-3305

Rio Grande Building Room 252