For two weeks this summer, students at five college campuses across the country stepped into the Summer@CIP experience—living in residence halls, navigating campus life, developing important life skills, and discovering what it means to be more independent. From Westfield State University (CIP Berkshire)and UC Berkeley (CIP Berkeley) to Indiana University (CIP Bloomington), CSU Long Beach (CIP Long Beach), and the University of Central Florida (CIP Brevard), students came together to learn, explore, have fun, and form friendships that can continue long after the summer ends.
At each location, students stepped outside their comfort zones, developed practical skills, discovered new interests, and created memories with friends that will last long beyond the summer.
From hands-on learning and campus experiences to exciting outings and time spent together, students embraced the opportunity to experience what college life can look and feel like—with the support they needed to make the most of it.
Watch the Summer@CIP 2026 In Review Video!
Curriculum That Builds Confidence and Independence
At the heart of every Summer@CIP program is a comprehensive curriculum designed to help students develop the skills they need for greater independence, confidence, and success beyond high school.
Throughout the 2026 program, students explored topics including:
- Executive Functioning
- Independent Living Skills
- Goal Setting
- Person Centered Planning
- Building and Maintaining Friendships
- Social Skills and Communication
- Career Exploration and Workplace Skills
- Budgeting and Financial Awareness
- Physical Wellness and Nutrition
- Social Media Safety
- Volunteering and Community Engagement
These workshops weren’t simply classroom lessons. Students had opportunities to put what they learned into practice throughout their time on campus and during community outings.
Whether navigating a new environment, managing a budget, making plans with friends, or working toward personal goals, students were encouraged to take ownership of their experiences and make decisions that supported their growing independence.
Each student also leaves Summer@CIP with a binder containing the program curriculum, providing a valuable resource that students and families can revisit throughout the year.
The Power of Reflection: Cherry & Pit
At the end of many busy days, students gathered for one of Summer@CIP’s favorite traditions: “Cherry and Pit.”
Students reflected on the best part of their day—their “cherry”—as well as a challenge or difficult moment—their “pit.” The group also reviewed upcoming schedules and prepared for the next day.
This simple daily ritual encouraged students to practice reflection, self-awareness, communication, and executive functioning while creating space to celebrate successes and talk through challenges.
Just as importantly, it gave students another opportunity to connect with one another. Sharing the highs and lows of the day helped build trust, understanding, and community among students who had only recently met.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Summer@CIP, learning doesn’t stop when students leave the classroom.
Living in college residence halls, navigating campus, eating in dining halls, participating in group activities, and exploring the surrounding communities all provided opportunities to practice independence in real-world settings.
Students also experienced the fun side of summer and college life through a variety of activities and outings. Whether exploring a new city, getting creative, enjoying local attractions, or challenging themselves to try something new, students had opportunities to discover their surroundings while spending time with their new friends.
These experiences are an important part of the Summer@CIP experience. They allow students to practice skills in the moment while building confidence in unfamiliar environments and of course, having plenty of fun along the way.
Building Friendships and Finding Community
One of the most meaningful parts of Summer@CIP is often the friendships students make along the way.
For many students, arriving at a new college campus can feel both exciting and intimidating. Summer@CIP provides a supportive environment where students can meet peers with shared experiences and interests while learning how to build meaningful relationships.
From meals together and group activities to late-night conversations and shared adventures, students quickly discovered that some of the best memories of the summer were made simply by spending time together.
The friendships formed during Summer@CIP can extend far beyond the final day of the program. For some students, summer friendships become lasting connections, with students staying in touch, returning to Summer@CIP together, or even becoming college roommates.
Closing Ceremonies and Looking Ahead
As each Summer@CIP program came to an end, closing ceremonies gave students an opportunity to reflect on how far they had come.
Students celebrated their accomplishments, shared memorable moments, and looked ahead to the goals they want to pursue next. Students also had the opportunity to present their Person Centered Plans, highlighting the goals that matter most to them and the steps they can take to achieve them.
For families, the end of Summer@CIP isn’t the end of the learning experience. Students are encouraged to continue using the strategies, routines, and skills they developed throughout the summer.
Revisiting their curriculum binder, talking about their experiences, and continuing conversations around independence and personal goals can help students carry their Summer@CIP momentum into the next chapter.
More Than Just a Summer Program
Summer@CIP is more than a two-week summer experience. It can be a first step toward greater independence, confidence, and connection.
For some students, it is their first experience living away from home. For others, it is an opportunity to practice skills they have been developing while getting a glimpse of what college life might look like.
And for many, it is where they meet friends who become an important part of their lives.
The Summer@CIP 2026 season was filled with new experiences, personal growth, laughter, challenges, accomplishments, and plenty of unforgettable moments. From curriculum sessions and campus life to community adventures and time spent with new friends, every experience helped students take another step toward the future they envision for themselves.
Here’s to Summer@CIP 2026 students—and to the friendships, confidence, independence, and possibilities that will carry with them into what comes next!
