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.
January
Campus Life 101
Thursday, January 15, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
What is college really like? Explore the vibe, clubs, dorms, and freedoms of campus life. This interactive workshop explores options and matches interests and aspirations, highlighting self-discovery, opportunity awareness, and planning next steps with confidence.
UC Application Process
Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
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!
February
Financial Aid: Understanding the Different Types
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Register Here
Central Library - Teen Center (2nd Floor) | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
Get the scoop on financial aid! Find out what types of financial aid is available, including FAFSA, grants, and scholarships, how to find them, and what the process is for applying and receiving them.
Show Me the Money: Paying for College
Thursday, February 5, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
Learn how to pay for your future! This informative session unpacks grants, scholarships, FAFSA, and other financial aid options for college.
SAT Test Prep (Session 1)
Saturdays, February 7 to March 7, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | 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.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Central Library - Teen Center (2nd Floor) | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
Join us for an informative program to understand the ins and outs of financial aid. Learn financial literacy and practical strategies for applying to scholarships, budgeting for expenses, and identifying trustworthy sources to make informed financial decisions. This program covers FAFSA, the California Dream Act, Cal Grants, institutional scholarships, and private scholarships.
Community College Connect
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Register Here
Skyline Hills Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25
Learn how 2-year colleges offer affordable, flexible options -- and great pathways to 4-year schools. This interactive workshop explores options and matches interests and aspirations, highlighting self-discovery, opportunity awareness, and planning next steps with confidence.
Leadership & Service in College
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
Learn how leadership can take many forms, from student government to service opportunities! This workshop highlights the value of engaging and making connections and using leadership as a tool for influence and service. Participants will leave with practical ideas for how to get involved on a college campus and how leadership roles connect to career preparation.
FAFSA Frenzy: Understanding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Central Library - Teen Center (2nd Floor) | High School (Grades 9 - 12)
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.
Basics of College Readiness: A - G Requirements Completion
Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. | Register Here
Logan Heights Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25
Are you on track to meet the A-G requirements for UC and CSU admissions? In this session, expert advisors will guide participants through the A-G requirements, explain how to ensure their high school courses align with college eligibility, and discuss strategies to boost their college readiness.
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!
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.
January
Cooking For Teens
Thursday, January 8, 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
Saturday, January 10, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | Register Here
Oak Park Library | Ages 18+
Have you been wanting to try out healthier ingredients and cooking habits? Join us in learning delicious plant-based recipes!
Email & Tech Talk 101
Friday, January 16, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
North Clairemont Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)
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.
Study Smarter, Not Harder
Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. | Register Here
Logan Heights Library | Middle School (Grades 7 - 8) & High School (Grades 9 - 12)
Have trouble studying effectively? Join us for a hands-on workshop full of brain-friendly tricks, note-taking tips, and time management skills techniques.
Automotive Maintenance & Safety
Friday, January 30, 2026 | 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Register Here
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!
February
Healthy Cooking: Chocolate Tasting
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
San Ysidro Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)
Looking for something fun and sweet? Join us for a fun hands-on program to discover and taste easy chocolate recipes!
Cooking For Teens
Thursday, February 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!
Say It Clearly
Thursday, February 12, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
Pacific Highlands Ranch Library | High School (Grades 9 - 12) & Ages 18 - 25
Kick off Teen Driver Safety Week with us! Explore essential topics like Graduated Driver Licensing, selecting a safe vehicle, and choosing the right driving school. Gain insights into both the exciting and challenging responsibilities of driving. Let's hit the road to safe and smart driving. Registration is encouraged.
Healthy Cooking: Cooking around the World
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Register Here
San Ysidro Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)
Have you been wanting to try out new recipes from around the world? Join us in learning healthier cooking habits from different countries!
Healthy Cooking
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Register Here
College-Rolando Library | Elementary School (Grades 3 - 6) & Middle School (Grades 7 - 8)
Have you been wanting to try out healthier ingredients and cooking habits? Join us in learning delicious plant-based recipes!
Time Management Tricks
Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | Register Here
Balboa Library | Ages 18+
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.
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.
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.