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About Us

The Global Environmental Leadership and Sustainability programs at UC San Diego connect high-achieving high school students with college subject matter courses and experiences. Whether it be our one-week residential course on the Big Island of Hawai'i, or our intensive two-week UC San Diego/Washington D.C. program, participation in the GELS programs provides students the opportunity to experience life and learning in the lab, in the field and in the classroom. Instruction is provided by grad students in a wide array of academic disciplines, renown UCSD faculty researchers and scientists in the field.

It has never been more important to spark the imaginations of our students—to prepare them for a future world we can't even imagine. Innovations have never moved faster from the scientist's bench to our fingertips - this innovation changes the way we live, the way we work, and the way we communicate.

Young people, more than ever, need to understand what is coming, become competent stewards and be prepared to take full advantage of new opportunities. This University is committed to help all students eliminate barriers to learning.

We invite you to join us on this incredible journey and to be part of our vibrant community.

Learn About the Application Process


Contact Us

Please contact us today if you have any questions about the program. We are available 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday (Pacific Time) We look forward to hearing from you.

Email: academicconnections@ucsd.edu
Fax: (858) 534-7385
Telephone: (858) 534-0804

Mailing Address

University of California, San Diego
Academic Connections, MC 0176-S
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093-0176