College Camp

What is College Camp?

College Camp is a free, week-long overnight program that helps high school students who have completed 9th to 11th grade discover their strengths and set personal goals, and provide them with the support and resources to pursue higher education post-graduation.

Students spend a week staying at the University of Hawaii - Manoa dorms learning about the process for college applications, scholarships, and financial aid, touring college campuses, engaging with professionals to explore careers they're interested in, participating in a service project, and gaining leadership skills and a new network of friends and mentors.

College Camp has helped hundreds of former participants realize their full potential. Take charge of your future today and apply for the YMCA College Camp.

Activities May Include

College campus tours

UH Manoa Systems
Community Colleges
Other Universities on Oahu

Career networking event
College dorm experience
Community service project
Workshops on...

Applying to college
Financial Aid
Scholarships
Career Exploration
Financial literacy
... and so much more!

Apply to College Camp 2024

If you have completed 9th, 10th, or 11th grade and live on Oahu, you are welcome to apply. Sign up for our email list to be notified when application is live.

2024 Program Dates

Summer 2024 - Dates Coming Soon

What is the Application Process for College Camp?

While all students are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to students with financial need if the number of applications exceed capacity.

All applications will be reviewed by a panel of volunteers. Please be sure to answer honestly and thoroughly. Individual responses will be kept confidential.

Who Funds College Camp?

College Camp is funded through the generosity of our donors. Gifts range from $25 to $5,000. Their collective contributions allows the programs to be 100% free.

This year's camp is sponsored by the Kosasa Foundation and other donors.

We are forever grateful to our generous donors for providing this opportunity to impact hundreds of lives over the years.

College Camp Summer Mentorship Program

The primary objective of this program is to provide high school students with the necessary tools, resources, and guidance to successfully access and thrive in college. College mentors will serve as role models, offering academic, personal, and professional support to their mentees.

College Camp is a week-long mentorship program providing high school students a college access experience. High school students will have the opportunity to tour college campuses, stay at UH Manoa's dorms, learn about the higher education application process, complete a service project together, and participate in a career night with professionals from a variety of fields. By becoming a mentor, you'll work directly with a small group of students with a vital role in guiding and supporting high schoolers as they navigate the path to higher education.

Mentor Eligibility

Open to mentoring high-school aged students

Must currently be pursuing post-high-school education

University or Community College

Desire to expand your leadership abilities
Possess skills to be inclusive of all students
Attend all mandatory trainings
Pass our background check

Additional Information

Dormitory housing provided throughout duration of program
All meals covered for the week
Stipend Compensation available for mentors

If you are interested, please submit your resume and email us at collegecamp@ymcahonolulu.org outlining your experiences and motivation to join our team.

Atherton Branch

K to 12 Programs