More than 1,700 high school students from around the world immersed themselves in University of the Pacific’s labs, makerspaces and studios over the past month as part of the Pacific Summer High School Institute.

The pre-college program, now in its fifth year, gives students an opportunity to live on the university’s historic Stockton Campus while exploring one of more than 50 academic and athletic programs taught by Pacific faculty.

During the two-week sessions, students came from around the world and across the United States, including Italy, Germany, Hungary, Canada, Kansas, Arizona and New Mexico.

“This experience has helped me visualize myself in college,” said Nathan Endo, a high school senior who attended the program. “I think I finally narrowed it down to something I really want to do, and that’s electrical engineering.”

The university’s library and all nine of its schools and colleges offered courses, including the McGeorge School of Law and Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. Nine athletic programs were also available for students to hone their skills.

“Our faculty and guest instructors created immersive programs that allow students to learn in the same cutting-edge environments used by university students every day,” said Program Director and Professor of Chemistry Balint Sztaray. “Those experiences not only deepen their knowledge but also help them distinguish themselves as they prepare for college.”

The experience gives students a window into college life and allows them to explore potential careers they are passionate about.

"I hope students walk away knowing what it’s like to be a student at Pacific,” said Professor of Music Management and Music Industry Studies Joshua Smotherman. “They’re getting that full experience, so they know what it’s like before they’re actually a Pacific student."

A large number of students who experience the program go on to be Tigers. 75 former Summer High School Institute students have confirmed to enroll as freshmen in Fall 2026.

Pacific Institute students get the experience of living on the Stockton Campus in the same residential halls where college students live during the academic year, have meals with other students in the Don and Karen DeRosa University Center Marketplace, exercise in the state-of-the-art Baun Fitness Center and study in the university’s library, designed for 21st century learning and collaboration.

Each night students participated in recreational activities, ranging from movies under the stars, arts and crafts, esports and karaoke to swimming, basketball, volleyball and other activities.

"My main takeaway is that learning is important but it’s also important that you enjoy your time outside of classes,” said Arya Chaundkar, a high school senior. 

After academic programming wrapped each day, students were free to explore the university grounds, where they could try rock climbing in Baun Fitness Center, cool off in the Chris Kjeldsen Pool and participate in a myriad of social activities from playing in laser tag tournaments to roasting s’mores. Student Life led more than 300 activities for high schoolers over the two sessions.

Vice President for Student Life Maria Blandizzi said the residential experience gave students a valuable glimpse into college life while helping them build confidence and independence.

“Living in the residence halls challenged students to take ownership of their daily routines, balance academic expectations and navigate life on their own,” Blandizzi said. “In just a few weeks, many students developed new skills, greater self-confidence and a stronger sense of responsibility that will serve them well as they prepare for college.”

Learn more about the Pacific Summer High School Institute.