10 Tips to Ace Your UC Application
Collegewise is excited to announce the launch of the College Admissions Accelerator Program, a two-week immersive experience hosted at UC San Diego in partnership with Westcoast Connection, a leader in transformative teen summer programs. This new offering is designed to give high school students a meaningful head start on the college application process, all while experiencing college life firsthand.
For several years, Collegewise has delivered college-admissions-focused workshops as part of Westcoast Connection’s programs, including their popular Wall Street and UCLA experiences. This summer’s College Admissions Accelerator Program marks an exciting expansion of that partnership, enabling more students to gain structured, personalized, and expert guidance during the most important application season of their lives.
A Head Start on Applications—In Just 14 Days
Through a blend of engaging workshops, 1:1 feedback, and collaborative working sessions, students in this program will:
- Craft a compelling personal statement
- Build a smart and balanced college list
- Understand what admissions officers look for, and how to stand out
- Receive SAT/ACT preparation, including strategy, practice, and individualized support
- Develop a leadership/passion project that showcases initiative, impact, and personal growth
- Create a personalized application strategy and timeline
- Experience life on a college campus while studying at UCSD
- Enjoy Westcoast Connection's signature mix of fun, friendship, and meaningful enrichment
By the end of the program, students head into their junior or senior year confident, prepared, and, most importantly, in control of their college applications.
Why This Partnership Matters
This collaboration brings together two organizations that share a commitment to helping students grow, explore, and thrive.
“College admissions is stressful enough. Students deserve support that is structured, strategic, and encouraging,” said Belinda Paras, Director of Partnerships Growth at Collegewise. “We’ve loved working with Westcoast Connection over the past several years through their Wall Street and UCLA essay and college fit programs. Expanding our partnership to launch the College Admissions Accelerator Program means we can reach even more students at a pivotal moment and give them the clarity and confidence they need as they begin their admissions journey.”
For Westcoast Connection, the program is a natural extension of their mission to help teens discover their strengths and prepare for life beyond high school.
“Our goal has always been to create experiences that are both unforgettable and impactful,” said Ira Solomon, Executive Director at Westcoast Connection. “Partnering with Collegewise—leaders in the college admissions field—allows us to offer students the highest quality guidance while immersing them in an authentic college environment. We’re thrilled to bring this level of support to our community.”
The Collegewise Experience, On a College Campus
Collegewise counselors have guided tens of thousands of students through the admissions process. Our proven approach blends:
- Expert application coaching
- Clear, strategic planning
- High-quality essay development
- Test prep support grounded in proven strategies
- Leadership and passion project development coaching
- A focus on student wellness and confidence
Bringing this expertise to a residential summer program gives students the rare opportunity to learn, write, revise, plan, and build, without the distractions and pressures of the school year.
Enrollment Now Open
The College Admissions Accelerator Program at UC San Diego is now open for registration through Westcoast Connection. Space is limited to ensure personalized attention and a high-impact experience.
📍 Location: UC San Diego
📅 Length: 14 days
🎓 Ideal for: Students in 9th, 10th, and 11th grade ready to dive into their college admissions journey with expert support
🔗 Learn more & apply: Westcoast Connection & Collegewise – College Admissions Accelerator Program
About Collegewise
Collegewise is the nation’s leading college counseling organization, dedicated to helping students build strong futures through expert admissions guidance. Our team of counselors and tutors has helped more than 30,000+ families navigate the college admissions process with confidence, clarity, and care.
About Westcoast Connection
With over 44 years of experience, Westcoast Connection is a trusted provider of global, experiential summer programs for teens. Their mission is to create life-changing experiences that build independence, leadership, and meaningful connections.
