Riverside City College Promise Program Summer Experience Welcomes 1,600 Students and Delivers Strong Start for Fall Semester
Riverside City College (RCC) proudly welcomed 1,600 incoming Promise Program students this July during the Promise Program Summer Experience. Developed by the Promise Program and Title V Grant teams, the month-long initiative helped students prepare for a successful start to college through educational planning, career exploration, transfer readiness, and engagement with campus resources.
Throughout July, students participated in weekly four-day sessions designed to strengthen their connection to RCC and prepare them for their first semester. The experience introduced students to academic support services, career and transfer opportunities, and the resources available to help them achieve their goals.
Comprehensive Programming for Student Success
Students began the Summer Experience by connecting with peers, faculty, staff, and student leaders while learning about the Promise Program, success teams, affinity programs, and campus resources available to support their success.
To support academic planning, counseling faculty developed Student Educational Plans (SEPs) for incoming Promise students prior to the program. During Day 2 Educational Planning Workshops, counselors and educational resource advisors reviewed students' plans and provided guidance on course sequencing, degree requirements, transfer pathways, and available support services. Students also participated in Canvas orientation, peer mentor panels, and campus scavenger hunts designed to familiarize them with college resources and expectations.
On Day 3, students explored future opportunities through College and Career Success and Transfer Pathways workshops, including presentations from California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). Resource fairs and faculty-led demonstration classes further introduced students to academic programs, career pathways, and campus support services.
The experience concluded with financial wellness workshops, First Day Ready activities, and a parent orientation, ensuring students and their families were prepared for the start of the fall semester.
A Strong Start for Student Success
“The Promise Program Summer Experience is more than an orientation; it is a launchpad for student success,” said Sharon Walker, Director of Academic Support. “Students leave the program with a clear educational plan, a stronger understanding of transfer and career opportunities, and connections to the people and resources that will support them throughout their college journey.”
“One of the most valuable aspects of the Summer Experience is helping students see the connection between their educational plans, transfer opportunities, and future careers,” said Courtney Carter, Career Center Coordinator, Guided Pathways Coordinator, and CTE Counselor. “By engaging students in career exploration and transfer planning early, we empower them to make informed decisions and build a strong foundation for long-term success.”
The program reflects RCC's core values of preparedness, belonging, opportunity, and commitment, ensuring that every Promise student begins their academic journey equipped with the tools and support needed to succeed.
Riverside City College's Promise Program is a holistic, equity-centered initiative that provides tuition-free education and a network of peers, mentors, counselors, faculty, and staff dedicated to helping students successfully navigate higher education and achieve their educational goals.
