Will attending one of your programs help me get into college?

Attending a summer program is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow into a more well-rounded, mature individual. No matter what type of program you choose, the personal development and experience gained over the course of the summer are valuable resources that could help you with your college essays and applications. If your goal for the summer is to get a head start on college prep, a Career Experience or Pre-College Enrichment program could be just what you need. So while attending any particular summer program will not necessarily get you into your choice school, what you get from it can make a difference!

Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?

Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.

When do I choose my courses?

For fall enrollments, we will send you a course choice preference form around November 10. You will be able to select your first and second course preferences. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring. For enrollments after November 10, we will send you a course choice preference form upon receipt of your application for enrollment. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.

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Outstanding summer programs for teens since 1982

Pre-College Enrichment Los Angeles - on the Campus of UCLA plus Hawaii Extension 28 Days

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Pre-College Program on the Campus of UCLA

Get a sneak peek of college life during this high school pre-college summer program on the campus of UCLA! Pursue your passions through a broad selection of dynamic and enriching courses, while discovering L.A.’s top highlights with new friends. Designed to balance academic enrichment, exciting group outings, and managed independence, this program helps prepare high schoolers for campus life and builds lifelong connections. Living and studying on the campus of UCLA, students enjoy access to premier sports facilities and the energetic collegiate environment of Westwood Village.

This 28-day version of this UCLA campus high school summer program includes an 7-day extension traveling to Maui and ending in Oahu.

Program Highlights

Experience college life at the #1 public university in the United States.
Pursue your interests with a variety of enriching courses.
Stay active with UCLA’s world-class recreational facilities.
Professional surfing lessons at Santa Monica Beach.
Laugh with your new friends at IMPROV Comedy Club.
Experience the magic of Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood.
Cheer on the Dodgers at a Major League Baseball game!
Prep for college with workshops and campus tours.
Traditional Hawaiian luau.
Check out L.A.'s hot spots and iconic Manhattan and Venice beaches.
Meet and make new friends while living on campus.
Take a splash-filled ride on a Banana Boat.
Enjoy spectacular views while hiking Diamond Head.

Map showing a travel route from Los Angeles to Maui with a red dashed line and airplane icon, labeled Start in Los Angeles and End in Maui, and a legend for Number of days at the bottom.

Courses

Morning

From learning basic knife skills to creating succulent dishes, if you are a foodie, this course is for you! Whether you’re creating gourmet entrées or delicious desserts, this course is guaranteed to make you salivate. Our expert chef will help you develop technical skills in the kitchen in this hands-on culinary experience, where each class focuses on a different theme. You even get to take away a book full of mouth-watering recipes you helped prepare!

* A supplementary fee of $220 applies.

Creative & Applied ArtsMorning

This program is designed to increase your overall fluency through real experiences with American culture. Improve your vocabulary and pronunciation, review proper grammatical structures, and practice your writing skills. Beyond the classroom, guided field trips provide you many opportunities to practice your English in the real world. If attending a university in the USA is one of your future goals, then this is the program for you!

* A supplementary fee of $220 applies.

LanguageMorning

This hands-on, workshop-based course helps students become comfortable, confident, and persuasive communicators. Blending the core principles of public speaking with the art of debate, students will develop essential skills for success in both professional and everyday settings. Students will learn how to structure and deliver compelling presentations, build strong arguments, think critically under pressure, and engage in respectful, evidence-based discussion. Through brief speeches, debates, and constructive feedback, students will overcome communication barriers and gain the tools to speak with clarity, confidence, and conviction.

Social SciencesMorning

This course provides students with an overview of business for professional sports including finance, marketing and technology. Learn about professional sports entities that make billions of dollars entertaining people around the world. Through lectures, case studies and guest speakers, explore topics such as producing live events, broadcasting rights, athlete marketing, sponsorship, the fan experience, and sports law.

BusinessMorning

This interactive course combines an introduction to the framework of the U.S. legal system with an exploration of special topics in public policy and legal debate. Students will explore the legal foundations of political decision-making by participating in discussions, case studies, evidence-based exercises, and simulations. Learn about the scope of laws, how they evolve, and apply these lessons to current legal debates.

LawMorning

Perform meaningful service in the communities in and around LA as a course option. Projects are finalized in the spring and currently planned is several days working with the children at a youth club. A letter recognizing the hours of service and detailing the projects accomplished will be issued after the summer.

Program Length	# of Hours
14 Days	14
21 or 32 Days	24

Social SciencesMorning, Afternoon

Afternoon

This intensive hands-on entrepreneurship program focuses on all facets of business plan development. Learn to assess the competitive entrepreneurial environment, develop a venture concept and growth strategies, create marketing approaches, build a cohesive management team, launch operations and develop financial projections. During the program, participants work as a team to create a business and on the final day, each team presents their business plan and participates in a friendly “shark tank” type competition.

BusinessAfternoon

Experience the world of forensic science through hands-on training exercises and theoretical lessons. Examine CSI procedures along with forensic anthropology, biology and bloodstain pattern analysis. A scenario is staged and you work in investigative teams to identify, collect and interpret the evidence before you act as a forensic expert witness and testify in a mock-court setting.

Science & TechnologyAfternoon

There are few better places to master the art of photography than in the bright and sunny city of L.A. With your digital camera in hand, this photography course will discuss fundamental operations, techniques, and critical vocabulary of digital photography. Students will learn about the camera’s basic and advanced settings in an effort to make beautiful photographs, all while having fun. The class will cover ISO, shutter speed, aperture, white balance, image quality, and compositional methods to help students develop their vision as budding photographers. Two local field trips to the Getty and a traditional darkroom will also be arranged. The course culminates with post-production discussion and demonstration including digital printing and Adobe Photoshop, with each student walking away with at least one print of their best work!

*A DSLR or bridge camera with manual functions having at least a 12.0 megapixel sensor is required.

Creative & Applied ArtsAfternoon

This course looks at the channels of marketing, advertising and communication that make up social media platforms, exploring how these tools fit into a company’s integrated marketing strategy. Using real-world examples from large corporations and small businesses, students explore how marketing professionals embrace online social networks, user-generated content and content sharing to create brand awareness. Learn tips and techniques to successfully leverage your own social media marketing.

BusinessAfternoon

Program Length	# of Hours
14 Days	14
21 or 32 Days	24

Social SciencesMorning, Afternoon

Typical Weekday Schedule

Choose a morning and afternoon course. Your personal schedule and lunch time may vary based on your course choices.

8:00 AM Wake Up
8:30 AM Breakfast
9:30 AM Morning Course
11:30 AM Lunch
1:30 PM Afternoon Course
3:30 PM Free Time (sports, fitness center, free time, special activities)
6:00 PM Dinner
7:00 PM Evening Activities

Travel Highlights

Hawaii Extension
Maui & O'ahu
Catamaran and snorkeling at Coral Gardens • Banana boating • Beach time • Authentic Hawaiian Luau experience • Diamond Head hike
See More Details for the full list of highlights.
City Highlights
Los Angeles
Universal Studios' SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter • CityWalk • Hollywood Walk of Fame • Venice Beach and Boardwalk • Santa Monica Pier and world-famous Pacific Wheel • Manhattan Beach • Original Farmers Market • Disneyland & Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge • Dodgers MLB Game • Rodeo Drive • IMPROV Comedy Club • Abbot Kinney Boulevard • Century City • Third Street Promenade • Griffith Observatory • Hollywood Sign
See More Details for the full list of highlights.
Day Trip
Santa Monica Beach
Take a break from class and spend the day at the iconic Santa Monica Beach, where you'll learn how to catch waves with professional surf instructors.

College Life

UCLA Campus
After your stay here, you might not be able to wait to send in your application. Enjoy UCLA’s incredible campus situated in one of the most vibrant cities in the world and surrounded by iconic neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Westwood & Bel Air.
UCLA Residence
Stay on campus at Delta Terrace in Sunset Village, a suite-style residence with your own bathroom, workspace, closet space, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. This premium campus location is close to everything: multiple dining halls, the Sports and Recreation Center, pools, classrooms, and the student union.
World-Class Athletic Facilities
Stay active with complimentary access to UCLA’s world-class facilities. Enjoy their strength & conditioning zone that includes weight training equipment, cardio machines and stretching mats. Refresh in the pool or break a sweat on the basketball, volleyball, tennis, badminton, racquetball and squash courts. Try out the climbing wall or hang out in the games lounge.
Organized Sports & Games
Our sports coordinator organizes games of all kinds outside of class time. Play a game of ultimate Frisbee or maybe cross paths with a Laker or two on the courts.
Positive Social Experience
This program is designed to give you a taste of the excitement and independence you will experience in college. Just like in college, you will be part of a large group of students, live in a residence, and have your choice of classes. And like in college, you will enjoy a warm, family environment within your residence where you enjoy many opportunities to socialize with other students.

What It’s Like
Experience college life with the balance of engaging courses, group excursions, and free time.
Certificate of Completion
Receive a letter certifying the completion of your courses. Letters of recommendation are also available.
Exclusive Classes
All classes on this program are private to Westcoast Connection students.
Engaging Instructors
Courses taught by experienced university-level faculty, instructors, and local professionals.
Accommodations
UCLA residence and Hawaii hotels.
Athletic Facilities
Unlimited access to the world-class facilities of the UCLA Bruins.
Meals
Includes breakfast and dinner daily. Enjoy a variety of options at the dining hall and local restaurants.
Excursions
Explore Los Angeles, from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios to its fabulous beaches.
Hawaii Extension
Experience the highlights of Oahu and Maui.
Transportation
Travel by passenger van or school bus around L.A, and by private motor coach and private school bus in Hawaii.
Dietary Options
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.

More Details

Flight to Los Angeles, California
As a participant on this program, you may fly on our chaperoned flight from the New York area to Los Angeles. Our leaders greet you at the airport and are with you from check in onward. For the many travelers from outside the New York area, you may fly to LA and be greeted upon arrival and for flights in designated times, enjoy complimentary transfer from the airport to our UCLA residence. If you prefer, you may be dropped off directly at our UCLA residence and meet your staff there.

Internal Flights
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $850 USD fee for internal flights from Los Angeles to Hawaii and between the Hawaiian islands.

Return Flight Home from O’ahu, Hawaii
For your return from O’ahu, we offer a chaperoned flight back to the New York area. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after it lands; or you may fly from O’ahu directly to your home city and our leaders help you to check in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.

Food & Meals
A big part of your success depends on how well you eat. We are proud of the fact that year after year we are complimented for our quality, quantity, and choice of food! Breakfasts on this program are served at the UCLA dining hall or grab-and-go at Café 1919. For lunch, you enjoy the choice of eating in smaller groups and choosing from small restaurants if you are off campus or the UCLA dining hall or local Westwood restaurant if you are on campus. Dinner is either at the UCLA dining hall or at restaurants. Food options are varied and plentiful. The UCLA dining hall is terrific and features a different menu every night, with staples always available including a fresh salad bar, hamburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, and pizza.

We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.

Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. We have the opportunity to do laundry at your convenience in our residence hall.

Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!

Note
Note that this summer program for high school students is operated by Westcoast Connection. While students stay at a UCLA residence, use UCLA classrooms, athletic facilities and some courses are taught by UCLA Extension instructors, this is not a UCLA program and responsibility for the program resides solely with Westcoast Connection.

Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, day and weekend excursions, use of UCLA athletic facilities, Wi-Fi in residence, campus identification fee, courses (supplementary fees may apply for some) airport transfers at designated times, gratuities & taxes.

Not included is transportation to and from the program, internal flights, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, laundry, and the application fee. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Workshop 1: Choosing the Right School and College Application Process
Choosing the right college for your academic and personal interests is the first step in the application process. It requires careful research and self-evaluation. This interactive workshop provides you with tools and resources to help you develop a list of criteria integral in choosing appropriate colleges. Explore the basic elements of the college application and learn the ins and outs of the Common Application. Develop your academic/co-curricular profile, learn how to craft a high caliber application and set up your timeline for completion of applications, supplements and essays.

Workshop 2: College Essay Writing
Explore different essay topics and strategies to write a proper admission essay that distinguishes you. As one of the top qualitative measures in the admissions process, your personal essay is an integral part of your application. As a critical aspect of your first impression to an admissions officer, the essay is an opportunity for you to share your stories, adding greater depth and dimension to your application. This workshop includes an overview of fundamental writing skills using real examples of college essays. The focus is on practical tips for writing a great college essay, including finding your voice, brainstorming essay ideas, understanding the prompts, focusing on a theme and the importance of editing and proofreading.

Universal Studios’ SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Explore thrilling rides at Universal Studios, stroll through CityWalk, and immerse yourself in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™.

Surf Lessons at Santa Monica Beach
Catch waves with professional instructors at one of California’s most iconic beaches.

Hollywood Walk of Fame
Spot celebrities and their handprints outside the famous TCL Chinese Theater.

Venice Beach and Boardwalk
Enjoy the eclectic vibe of this lively beachside area.

Santa Monica Pier
Take in stunning coastal views from the world-famous Pacific Wheel.

Manhattan Beach
Relax on the sand or play a game of beach volleyball.

Original Farmers Market
Savor global flavors with over 100 different cuisines to choose from.

Disneyland & Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Experience the magic of Disney and explore the Star Wars universe.

Dodgers MLB Game
Catch the excitement of a Major League Baseball game at Dodger Stadium.

Rodeo Drive
Stroll through the world-renowned shopping district for luxury fashion.

IMPROV Comedy Club
Laugh the night away at one of L.A.’s top comedy venues.

Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Explore one of L.A.’s trendiest streets, packed with boutique shops, cafés, and art galleries.

Century City
Experience upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment in this vibrant business district.

Third Street Promenade
Stroll through this lively outdoor shopping area, filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants.

Griffith Observatory
Visit this iconic landmark for stunning views of Los Angeles and stargazing opportunities.

Hollywood Sign Hike
Hike up to the world-famous Hollywood Sign and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Maui
Snorkeling at Coral Gardens
Sail on a luxury 65-foot catamaran for an exclusive sunset cruise and snorkel alongside over 250 species of marine life at one of Maui’s premier snorkeling destinations.

Beach Time
Soak in the sun, relax, and enjoy quality beach time with new friends.

Accommodation: Royal Lahaina Resort

O’ahu
Banana Boating
Take a splash-filled, exhilarating ride on a 6-seater Banana Boat from Koko Marina.

Authentic Luau Experience
Be amazed by the vibrant culture, music, and dance at an authentic Hawaiian luau.

Diamond Head Hike
Hike the breathtaking Diamond Head crater, formed from ancient eruptions of the Ko’olau Volcano.

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki

Frequently Asked Questions

Will attending one of your programs help me get into college?
Attending a summer program is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow into a more well-rounded, mature individual. No matter what type of program you choose, the personal development and experience gained over the course of the summer are valuable resources that could help you with your college essays and applications. If your goal for the summer is to get a head start on college prep, a Career Experience or Pre-College Enrichment program could be just what you need. So while attending any particular summer program will not necessarily get you into your choice school, what you get from it can make a difference!
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
When do I choose my courses?
For fall enrollments, we will send you a course choice preference form around November 10. You will be able to select your first and second course preferences. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.
For enrollments after November 10, we will send you a course choice preference form upon receipt of your application for enrollment. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.

See All FAQs

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