Join Us this Summer for SoarCS!
SoarCS is a summer bridge program for incoming computer science students who want to start their computer science (CS) journey with a serious advantage. The program is open to all first-year, full-time computer science students. SoarCS is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
Most computer science courses teach programming languages and theory. SoarCS focuses on the practical side of computing that students are often expected to learn on their own: command-line workflows, Git and GitHub, debugging, automation, development environments, and modern AI-assisted coding tools.
You’ll learn the tools and workflows used by real developers, researchers, and engineers. These are the same skills that make advanced students more productive in classes, internships, research labs, and personal projects.
We highly encourage students from multicultural backgrounds, first-generation students, and women to participate in the program.
With SoarCS, you will:
- Learn practical developer workflows used in modern computing
- Gain hands-on experience with tools such as Git, GitHub, command-line environments, and debugging tools
- Learn how to use AI-assisted coding and development tools effectively and responsibly
- Build confidence working in real computing environments
- Develop productivity and troubleshooting skills that will help in future CS courses
- Meet faculty, staff, and fellow students before the semester begins
- Connect with new and returning CS students who share your interests in computing and technology
Thanks to our sponsors, the program is free. Space is limited, so apply by Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
Program Structure
The program runs during the summer before the fall semester and includes in-person sessions twice per week. Sessions combine short lectures, guided demonstrations, hands-on activities, and collaborative exercises focused on practical computing skills and modern development workflows.
The emphasis of the program is on learning by doing through practical exercises and real-world workflows commonly used across computer science disciplines.
Summer 2026 Schedule
The program runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 21, 2026 through August 11, 2026 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. All sessions are in person (no virtual or hybrid option). Lunch will be provided after each session.
Whether you're interested in Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, cybersecurity, systems, game development, data science, or software engineering, these are foundational skills that will help throughout your CS career.
