Created in 2019, SoarCS is a summer bridge program open to all first-year, full-time computer science (CS) students. SoarCS is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
Before the fall semester, the UMass Lowell Kennedy College of Sciences wants to give you a chance to meet your classmates and build skills to help you succeed in computer science. We highly encourage students from multicultural backgrounds, first-generation students and women to take advantage of the program.
With SoarCS, you will:
- Learn coding skills and create an original project
- Meet faculty and staff who will welcome you to UMass Lowell
- Connect with new and returning students
- Make friends
Thanks to our sponsors, the program is free. Space is limited, so apply by Thursday, June 26, 2025.
SoarCS will run in summer 2025 as a hybrid program with both on-campus and remote participation options!
Weekly Schedule
SoarCS will take place from Monday, July 14, 2025 to Thursday, August 7, 2025. It's a hybrid program where Monday and Wednesday sessions are via Zoom and Thursdays are in-person on the UMass Lowell Campus (with a concurrent remote option). Each week we will have a live video tutorial, two panels and a wrap-up/share out. All sessions will be available later as recordings. We’ll also have optional activities that you can complete on your own schedule, and an always-open chat space.
Before we start, we will send you a package of materials, including a micro:bit miniature computer and a T-shirt. To participate in the program, you need a PC, Mac or Chromebook with internet access, and an iPhone or Android phone.
Here’s what to expect each week:
- Monday, 10:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. – Weekly kickoff with new technology lesson and hands-on time (Virtual)
- Wednesday, 10:45 - 11:30 a.m. – Special event panel with question and answer (Q&A) that may include current CS students, industry alumni and faculty researchers (Virtual)
- Thursday, 10:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. – Share-out of your work from this week; special event panel (On-campus with an option for joining remotely)
When we all get together on campus during the academic year, we will have more opportunities for learning.
