Main Components of the Puente Program include

  • Accelerated English InstructionStudents at scholarship workshop

    For three quarters, the Puente cohort stays with the same instructor through EWRT 1A/LART250, ELIT41, and EWRT2. By the end of the first year, all Puente students who successfully pass these courses will be UC and CSU transfer ready for their English and Critical Thinking requirements as well as fulfilling one of their Humanities General Education requirements.

  • Counseling Continuity
    Puente students have regular meetings and guidance from the same counselor until they transfer to a four-year university. They also take three classes, HUMA 20, CLP 70, and COUN 80X that focus on academic planning, career exploration and student success and leadership skills.
  • Individual Mentoring
    Each Puente student is matched with a professional from the community who volunteers his or her time to offer the student new perspectives on career and education pathways.

The Puente Program at De Anza College also offers participants

  • Student Assistants who serve as office assistants and help organize and host the many events we have each year
  • Student Family involvement
  • Puente Alumni who have finished the coursework for the Puente Program but continue to attend events and serve as role models for newer Puente students
  • Educational enrichment events, such as live theater, University campus visits, cultural events, volunteer opportunities and more

Several seasoned Puente students at new student orientation 

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