The High School Student Retreat, located at the Rancho El Chorro outdoor campus in San Luis Obispo, is a dynamic event designed to inspire and empower high school students. With a focus on personal development, the retreat features engaging workshops that help students cultivate effective habits for academic success and beyond.

The High School Student retreat focuses on topics such as:

• A-G requirements
• Leadership Skills
• College Prep
• College Educational Plan
• FAFSA / CADAA Apps

Each year we host 6-8th grade students at camp SCICON in Springville, California. For 3 days and 2 nights, students who attend are introduced to college readiness tools that will help them set a clear path for the years to come such as:

• A-G Requirements
• Financial Aid Information on FAFSA and Dream Act applications 
• Explore different career paths 
• Opportunities to gain cultural awareness and leadership skills through educational activities and motivational speakers.

Tizoc Valdez Lopez

Program Coordinator Fellow

Each summer Y2L hosts over 100 students at our camps on the campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara. For one week students dive into academic enrichment and college readiness activities. We run two simultaneous programs during the week long camp.

Pre-College is a camp that prepares incoming 9th grade students to make a smooth transition to high school. Students take three classes throughout the week which cover literature, writing, and college readiness. The students hear from guest speakers, and get to explore college life at one of the nation's top universities.

Yo Puedo! (I Can!) is a camp designed to help high school upperclassmen (10th and 11th grade) develop skills that will help them prepare for the upcoming school year and beyond. Students in this camp also take classes throughout the week, which cover literature, math, and college readiness. Much like the Pre-College group, these students get to hear from guest speakers and explore college life at UC Santa Barbara.

Don't miss out of this wonderful program! 

The summer Algebra Academy at the University of California, Santa Barbara, is a residential program that takes an innovative approach to teaching mathematics in an engaging way. This program is designed to help middle school students better understand key concepts to excel in Algebra.

Over four weeks, the program will welcome different groups of middle school students from various districts within the Central Valley. The academy begins on June 23rd and runs until July 19th, with a new cohort starting each week. Students will gain valuable tips and strategies for problem-solving in both mathematical and everyday contexts. The program includes a range of algebra enrichment activities, cultural awareness sessions, and leadership workshops.

The Math Academy is an engaging and enriching program designed for middle school students to enhance their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Over the course of the weekend, students will participate in a variety of challenging math activities and interactive sessions aimed at fostering a love for mathematics and preparing them for future success in the field.

Throughout the weekend, students will have the opportunity to hear from guest speakers who will share insights about the importance of STEM. Participants will be challenged with different math problems and activities that not only test their current knowledge but also encourage them to think creatively and develop new strategies. The Math Academy provides a supportive environment where students can collaborate, learn, and grow their skills, setting a strong foundation for their future academic and professional endeavors.

Don't miss out of this wonderful program! 

The Senior Retreat at Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation is a transformative three-day event for high school seniors, with a focus on migrant students, to support their transition to higher education and career success. Held annually in San Luis Obispo, the retreat offers a supportive environment where students gain valuable insights into academic planning, financial aid, and career pathways, including both higher education and vocational options.

Through workshops, seminars, and leadership activities, students receive expert guidance on navigating financial aid, college applications, and career exploration. The retreat also fosters personal growth, encouraging students to connect with peers, reflect on their goals, and leave empowered to take the next steps in their educational and career journeys.