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.

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.

March

Navigating the College Application Process
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Register Here
Carmel Valley Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Know what to expect as you prepare for college! Get the details on how to approach the college application process, including the different types of applications. This program will also cover important timelines, required documents, and strategies for staying organized throughout the process as well as the importance of self-advocacy.

Transitioning from High School to College
Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Register Here
Skyline Hills Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Get ready for college life! Know what to expect academically, socially, and personally when you get to college. This program covers time management, effective study strategies, importance of campus involvement, and the value of building supportive relationships while emphasizing self-advocacy and wellness practices.

Private & Out-Of-State Colleges: Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages
Thursday, March 26, 2026 | 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Not sure what kind of college you want to attend? Join us for an informative program covering what makes different types of colleges -- private, in-state, and out-of-state -- unique and what to expect when applying to them.

UC Application Process
Saturday, March 28, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. | Register Here
North Park Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Parents

Not sure how to start your UC college application? Join us in this informative session to know what to expect from the UC application process!

April

UCSD Information Session
Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Interested in learning more about the University of California San Diego campus? Join us with UC San Diego representatives in this informative session to ask all of your burning questions!

First-Gen Futures
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Are you the first in your family to go to college? This session offers support, stories, and tips just for you. Learn what to expect from college life, be prepared for common challenges, and get informed about resources and opportunities.

Preparing for College Applications: Personal Insight Questions
Thursdays, April 9, 2026 & April 16, 2026 | 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Prepare for your college application! In this 2-day series, learn the importance of the personal insight questions. Gain an understanding of the basic requirements, what to expect, and how to make yourself stand out and show your authentic self. Participants will have the opportunity to practice their knowledge and skills and get feedback from expert instructors.

First Generation College Student Success
Saturday, April 11, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 
Skyline Hills Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Are you the first in your family to pursue higher education? Learn about the unique strengths first-generation students bring to the college experience while also addressing common challenges, including navigating unfamiliar systems and balancing family responsibilities. Learn about campus resources, mentorship opportunities, and strategies for building community and confidence. Families are also invited to participate to better understand how to support their students.

Exploring Higher Education
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 
Otay Mesa-Nestor Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Parents

Not sure what type of college would best fit your goals? Join us for an informative session covering the types of higher education institutions in California, including community colleges, public and private universities, and other options.

Navigating the College Application Process
Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 
Mission Valley Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Know what to expect as you prepare for college! Get the details on how to approach the college application process as well as important timelines, required documents, and strategies for staying organized throughout the process and make your application stand out.

Transitioning from High School to College
Monday, April 27, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 
Logan Heights Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Know what to expect academically, socially, and personally when you get to college. This program covers time management, effective study strategies, importance of campus involvement, and the value of building supportive relationships while emphasizing self-advocacy and wellness practices that help students balance academics with personal growth.

May

FAFSA Frenzy: Understanding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Skyline Hills Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Getting ready for FAFSA and not sure where to start? Join us for step-to-step help for completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) -- what you need, what to watch for, and how to avoid mistakes.

Maximize Your Community College Experience
Monday, May 4, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Stand out in community college! Learn how to make the most of your time before transferring to a 4-year institution. This program covers academic planning, engagement in student life, relationship building with professors, and leadership opportunities. Then get tips on how to strengthen your transfer applications.

SAT Test Prep (Session 2)
Tuesdays, May 5, 2026 - June 2, 2026 | 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. 
Valencia Park/Malcolm X - Teen Center | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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.

Admissions 101: What Colleges are Looking for
Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. 
North Park Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Parents

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.

Admissions 101: What Colleges are Looking for
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 
Central Library - Teen Center | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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.

Exploring Majors & Careers    
Thursday, May 28, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 
Logan Heights Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Connect the dots between your interests and strengths and your potential career pathways. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their values and passions while exploring how college majors lead to transferrable skills and career opportunities.

June

Writing a Strong Personal Statement
Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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 | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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.

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.

March

My Voice Matters
Thursday, March 5, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Can't find the right words? Build confidence and learn how to speak up for yourself and others respectfully and safely in this interactive program. Make new connections and strengthen existing ones while gaining lifelong skills. 

Cooking For Teens
Thursday, March 12, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Central Library - Teen Center | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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!

Healthy Cooking: Eat Your Colors of the Rainbow
Tuesday, March 17, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
San Ysidro Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with us and learn new and healthier recipes using ingredients from the colors of the rainbow! In this fun-filled program, learn about healthier options for everyday life as you try new recipes.

Self Care: Taking Care of You
Friday, March 20, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. | Register Here
Paradise Hills Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Explore methods of physical and mental self-care with a wellness activity, then join us in learning a delicious healthy recipe that boosts our moods!

Time Management Tricks
Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. | Register Here
Oak Park Library | Middle School (Grades 7 - 8) & High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Too much to do and not sure where to start? In this hands-on program, practice how to plan your day, prioritize tasks, and beat procrastination to reach your goals and build success.

Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Logan Heights Library | Middle School (Grades 7 - 8), High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Interested in learning more about how to care for and maintain an automobile? Join us in this informative session to develop a foundation on automotive maintenance and safety!

Say It Clearly
Friday, March 27, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
North Clairemont Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Get ready to make a speech! Build your confidence in public speaking through fun activities and games as you make human connections and gain lifelong skills.

Email & Tech Talk 101
Saturday, March 28, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | Register Here
Balboa Library | Ages 18+

Learn habits and skills for fostering digital respect and a sense of community. Gain tips and skills in composing effective emails, how to use emojis wisely, and make technology work for you.

Zombie Preparedness
Saturday, March 28, 2026 |10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Register Here
Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

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.

April

Mental Health: Understanding Emotions
Friday, April 3, 2026 | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Learn about how brain chemistry is affected by the foods you eat. Join us in learning delicious healthy recipes that boost our moods too!

Healthy Cooking: 5 Ingredients or Less
Saturday, April 11, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Carmel Mountain Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Have you been wanting to try out healthier and easier cooking habits? Join us in learning recipes consisting of five ingredients or less!

Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Saturday, April 18, 2026 | 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Oak Park Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

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!

Stress Management
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Carmel Valley Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Discover how stress affects our bodies physically and mentally and participate in an optional meditation session. Join us in learning how to better manage our stress!

Healthy Cooking: Farm to Fork
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Join us to learn healthier eating and cooking habits with new recipes. From farm to fork ingredients, let's celebrate Earth Day together!

Cooking for Teens
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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!

Stress Management
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Discover how stress affects our bodies physically and mentally and participate in an optional meditation session. Join us in learning how to better manage our stress!

May

Study Smarter, Not Harder
Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Learn brain-friendly tricks, note-taking tips and time management skills. A hands-on workshop using collaboration and emphasizing communication with each other.

Dare to Prepare
Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Mission Valley Library| High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Parents

Gear up for driving success with our interactive workshop, perfect for pre-permit teenagers and their parents!

Finances & Budgeting
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Logan Heights Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Join us in understanding greater financial literacy through learning how to read and interpret paychecks, the purpose of different tax forms, and budgeting realistically.

Cooking for Teens
Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Central Library - Teen Center | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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!

My Voice Matters
Friday, May 15, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
North Clairemont Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Can't find the right words? Build confidence and learn how to speak up for yourself and others respectfully and safely in this interactive program. Make new connections and strengthen existing ones while gaining lifelong skills.

Automotive Maintenance & Safety
 Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
College Rolando Library | Middle School (Grades 7 - 8) & High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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!

Healthy Cooking: Edible Flowers
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
San Ysidro Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Join us to learn which flowers are safe for using in your recipes and for eating! A program designed to promote more whole food and healthier options for everyday life.

Roommate Etiquette
Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Learn how to express boundaries, be respectful and courteous with roommates, and how to initiate roommate agreements. Join us in understanding the importance of communication and gain lifelong skills.

Whole-Body Wellness: Building Healthy Habits
Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

Engage in some self-care! Explore how our daily habits affect our whole-body system (e.g. digestive, circulatory), get tips on how to stay healthy, and jumpstart your goals with a healthy recipe.

Healthy Cooking: Dinners
Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Carmel Mountain Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

Discover simple, healthy, and tasty recipes that make weeknight cooking easier! Join us for a fun, hands-on program focused on building practical cooking skills and developing healthier everyday habits. Perfect for young adults starting out on their own or anyone looking to refresh their routine with feel-good meal ideas.

Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Friday, May 29, 2026 | 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Paradise Hills Library | Ages 18 - 25

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!

June

Zombie Preparedness
Thursday, June 4, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)

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 | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25

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 | High School (Grades 9 - 12)

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!

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.