Loma Linda University (LLU) Community Academic Partners in Service (CAPS) is opening doors to possibility and expanding educational horizons through two transformative outreach initiatives: the My Campus event and the Discovery program. These programs are designed to engage students of varied backgrounds within local school districts, as well as first-generation students who may have limited exposure to higher education but demonstrate an interest in pursuing college. LLU collaborates with local school districts to invite middle and high school students to participate in these initiatives.
Discovery
The Discovery program is a two-week summer experience during which students engage in daily, in-person activities on campus. Through interactive and hands-on learning opportunities, participants are introduced to various departments and professional schools within LLU. The registration process requires teachers to first register and recommend students, followed by students completing their own applications, thereby encouraging both mentorship and student initiative.
My Campus
On January 30, 2026, I had the opportunity to observe and participate in the My Campus event, a one-day program offered three to four times annually. The event features informational booths and classroom-based activities designed to enhance students' educational awareness and stimulate interest in future academic and professional pathways. Approximately 100 seventh- and eighth-grade students from two middle schools in Riverside and San Bernardino attended. Given that each school enrolls approximately 300 students per grade level, participation in the event is selective and limited. The students, accompanied by their teachers, demonstrated enthusiasm and curiosity as they explored potential careers in healthcare. They were divided into five smaller groups and rotated through a series of structured activities.
One particularly meaningful component of the event was the play therapy session led by Dr. Danielle Clair, Director of the Play Therapy certificate program, Assistant Clinic Professor in the School of Behavioral Health (SBH), and Director of the SBH Resiliency Clinic. The theme of the session, "My Moral Compass," encouraged students to reflect on how their values, beliefs, behaviors, ethical perspectives, and life experiences influence their understanding of right and wrong. Through the use of sand trays, students constructed symbolic scenes representing their emotions, personal experiences, family and peer relationships, and lessons they have learned. This activity not only fostered self-awareness but also created a safe and supportive environment for personal expression.
I was honored to assist Dr. Clair in facilitating the play therapy session. In addition, I volunteered at the SBH booth, where I engaged with students and provided information about academic pathways in behavioral health. The SBH Child Life Specialist MS program was proudly featured, as outstanding student volunteers from the program engaged attendees and shared insights into the vital and meaningful work of the child life profession.
Observing the students' curiosity, creativity, and authentic self-expression was deeply impactful. Their genuine excitement, smiles, and engagement underscored the importance of early exposure to higher education and mentorship opportunities. The experience reinforced my understanding of how structured outreach initiatives can empower young students by broadening their aspirations and strengthening their sense of belonging within academic spaces.
I strongly encourage students to volunteer in community outreach initiatives such as these. Meaningful engagement not only benefits participants but also fosters personal growth and professional development for volunteers. I am sincerely grateful for the dedication and generosity of the LLU Pathway Programs team and all partnering schools for making this transformative experience possible for students in our community.
Written by Deanna Tang, Master of Social Work (MSW) student