UP-GRADE
What is
Up-Grade?
We've Powered Up... we've Built Up... this summer, get ready to UP-Grade your skill set with our annual summer design program.
UP-Grade is a 10-week online summer program where students will get the opportunity to work closely alongside a local, nonprofit organization to amplify and boost their exposure.
Overview
- July 1st - Sept 9th
- Network with industry professionals
- Work alongside nonprofits
- Mentor-led workshops
- Weekly team meetngs
Central
Themes
Education
Nonprofit organizations in San Diego thrive on their commitment to accessible education. From mentoring/tutoring services to outdoor recreational courses, these groups ensure that learning opportunities are made available to all regardless of age, socio-economic status, or other barriers! They work hard to provide opportunities for local youth to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Animal Services
Our local animal rescue and adoption nonprofits work tirelessly to provide care for the furry friends and local wildlife of the San Diego community. These groups actively foster a culture of compassion with hopes to encourage others to join in on their mission with open hearts and loving homes for animals in need!
Community Relief
Community-focused nonprofit organizations here in San Diego tackle basic needs insecurities, like food, housing, and healthcare crises through accessible medical support, healthy meals, and services that aid the search for affordable housing. With remarkable resilience and innovation, these groups foster significant, empathetic change in their local communities.
Why
Apply?
UP-Grade your resume + portfolio
Gain real-world experience through a fully developed project and stand out from other student designers with a personal story about your involvement in the project process!
Put classroom knowledge to use in a real-world setting
Bring your knowledge of technical and soft skills (and all things design process related) to active and practical use, further refining your skills along the way!
Network with peers and industry professionals
Collaborate with leaders in local nonprofit organizations, connect with tech industry professionals, and get to know project mentors!
Create meaningful solutions for social impact nonprofits
Bring your visions to reality, design with intention, problem-solve and overcome obstacles, and work to create lasting change for a larger community!
Here’s what previous participants had to say about the program:
“I was able to learn a lot through this project and was challenged to broaden my perspective and opinions. I realized how important it is to get accurate data and not to jump into my own assumptions. Getting help from mentors and professionals with real outside of class experience was also very insightful and beneficial in designing this project.”
“Learning about marketing and social media branding was a plus for sure, I feel like I needed an intro to many of the topics covered and there was no better way to do so than taking a part of such a versatile and dedicated team that ranged in skills, talents, and industry knowledge.”
Here’s where previous participants of Power Up and Build Up now work at:
FAQ
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