Each summer, our 11th grade students step onto a university campus not as visitors, but as researchers. They work alongside USD faculty, conducting real-world research that contributes to ongoing scientific work, gaining skills, confidence, and a clear vision of where science can take them.
This experience is part of a long-standing collaboration that is now formally recognized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Ocean Discovery Institute and the University of San Diego. Formalizing this partnership strengthens our shared commitment, aligns our work for the future, and ensures that students, educators, and researchers can continue building these opportunities together over the long term. Through this agreement, Ocean Discovery Institute is now a formal Anchor Partner of USD, recognizing a collaborative commitment that spans the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Leadership and Education Sciences, the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, and the Karen and Tom Mulvaney Center for Community, Awareness and Social Action, further deepening our connection to USD’s community engagement efforts.
Students and educators already see the impact of this partnership in many ways. During our 11th grade summer program, high school students work directly with USD researchers on real-world scientific projects. Throughout the year, USD faculty and staff mentor our students, offering guidance and insight into college and science careers. USD College Corps students also provide service and mentorship to high school participants in our Ocean Leader program, helping students navigate academics, leadership, and the transition to college. At the same time, our Teaching Fellows participate in professional development led by university experts, strengthening the quality of learning our students experience every day.
This partnership matters beyond any single program. For our students, it makes college and science careers visible and attainable. For USD, it reflects a deep commitment to equity, community investment, and expanding who participates in science. For our community, it strengthens a local pathway that connects neighborhood students to higher education, research, and meaningful careers, helping ensure that the future of science includes the talent, perspectives, and leadership of City Heights.
At Ocean Discovery Institute, we believe students shouldn’t have to wonder whether they belong in science or in college. When young people grow up with science, surrounded by mentors and clear pathways, college isn’t a question of if. It becomes a question of when.