College Application Bootcamp
Summer 2026
July 21st-24th
This experience is designed for rising 11th and 12th grades (Class of 2027 and 2028). A two part hands-on, intensive bootcamp, will leave your student feeling organized, supported, and confident with their college applications. Through both group and individual work we tailor the workshop to each students’ grade level, development, academic strengths, and future goals.
Services Included
In-person participation in a five day intensive college application workshop
In-person application completion booster weekend in August after applications open for the 2026-2027 application cycle
Complimentary 30 minute family consultation session with an HCC counselor
College Essay Drafts
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Activities List
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Resume Building
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Deadline Strategy
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Major Exploration
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College Essay Drafts 〰️ Activities List 〰️ Resume Building 〰️ Deadline Strategy 〰️ Major Exploration 〰️
What to Expect
Expect both lecture style presentations and dedicated, guided work time for students to complete college application materials.
Our counseling team will educate students on every component of the college application process. Our camp is unique because it consists of two parts: college application development and individualized completion after the opening of the 2026-2027 applications on August 1st.
Who?
Rising 11th and 12th grade high school students
When?
July 20, 2026 - July 24, 2026
Time?
12:00pm - 3:00pm PST
Location?
Dove Library 1775 Dove Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92011
What’s Included:
College List
Identify criteria that make a college a good fit for individual studentsBuild a balanced college application list of Likely, Target, and Reach schoolsLearn college research techniques
Major search and selection
The EssaysHow to brainstorm and identify strong essay topics for multiple types of prompts Common App personal statementUC PIQ essay writing techniquesSupplemental essaysCompletion of essay draftsEditing and feedback
Applications & DeadlinesLearn the difference between deadline types (Early Action, Early Decision 1 & 2, Regular,Rolling, and REA)How to choose deadline strategy for a specific college listCommon Application, UC Application, Cal State Application, and Direct to InstitutionDiscuss teacher letter of rec requestsScholarship search
TestingTest required schoolsSAT/ACT score reporting: self-reporting vs. sending official reportsTest-optional for 2026-2027 admissions cycle and use of Fairtest.org
Activity SectionUC app activity section and how to list non A-G courses and complete the descriptionsCommon App activity section and how to write descriptions and rank the 10 activities
Unique PathwaysRecruited Athletes - Create NCAA eligibility center accountMajor specific supplementals and portfolios for Business, BS/MD, Nursing, Art, Architecture, Theater, and more.
The first part of the camp is a four day workshop in July of interactive presentations, one-on-one consultation, and group work. Students leave this portion of the camp with:
College List
College Essay Drafts
Resume or Activity Lists created
Individualized admissions strategic plan
The second part of the camp is application booster weekend. Since college applications for the 2026-2026 admissions cycle are available starting August 1st, all participating students will meet with an HCC counselor for an individual session in August to fill in and complete all college applications.
11th Grade Perks
Preview to college admissions
Prepare for 2027-2028 application cycle
Collaborate with other junior students
Meet individually and in group settings with counselors toJ
ump start on college essays
Identify strengths and weaknesses in current application
Discussion of 12th grade coursework and academic planning
Major exploration
12th Grade Perks
Creating a balanced college list
Major and career exploration
Application completion
College essay completion
Activities list
Application timeline and demonstrated interest strategy
Camp Schedule
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Campers ease into the day with light games, creative prompts, and a welcome circle to set the tone.
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Guided outdoor activities and free play to stretch, move, and soak up some fresh air.
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Campers will be responsible for brining their own lunch, but we'll provide water and some additional snacks daily.
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Hands-on time to explore the daily theme—whether it’s art, building, storytelling, or movement.
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We'll end the day with a closing circle before campers head home for the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.
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Through our intensive workshop style programming, students will leave camp with:
College List
College Essay Drafts
Resume and Activity lists created
Individualized admissions strategy
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Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or schedule a call—we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
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We combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. It’s not just what we do—it’s how we do it that sets us apart.
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
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We offer flexible pricing based on project type and complexity. After an initial conversation, we’ll provide a transparent quote with no hidden costs.
Where to Find Us
While our office is located in Liberty Station, we are hosting our camp at the Dove Library in Carlsbad in the private, community Gowland Meeting Room. Located on the first floor of the library.
Dove Library - Gowland Meeting Room
1775 Dove Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92011