For incoming first-year and transfer students, the first day of college came with a little less mystery after Coyote Launchpad, a full-day experience that gave new Coyotes a head start on finding their classrooms, meeting new people and discovering what awaits them at Cal State San Bernardino.

Hosted by CSUSB’s Division of Student Affairs on Aug. 13, Coyote Launchpad brought students together across the San Bernardino campus for a day of exploration, conversation and connection before the fall semester begins.

As part of the university’s Coyote Jumpstart programming, the event gave students a chance to experience campus as members of the Coyote community – not just to learn where things are, but to start discovering where they might fit in.

“Coyote Jumpstart is designed to help students begin their CSUSB experience with confidence while also introducing them early to the many opportunities available to enhance their education beyond the classroom,” said Summer Steele, interim assistant vice president of Admissions, Recruitment and Pre-College Programs. “During our most recent Jumpstart, we wanted students to begin thinking from day one about experiences such as study abroad, internships, undergraduate research, and other high-impact opportunities that can shape their academic and career goals. 

“By exposing students to these resources early, we hope to encourage them to be intentional about their college experience, build meaningful connections, and take full advantage of everything CSUSB has to offer,” Steele said. “Ultimately, Coyote Jumpstart is about helping students see the possibilities ahead of them and giving them the knowledge and support to make those opportunities a part of their journey.” 

During the day, current CSUSB students shared their college experiences, offered advice to new Coyotes, and answered questions about academics, campus life and adjusting to college.
During the day, current CSUSB students shared their college experiences, offered advice to new Coyotes, and answered questions about academics, campus life and adjusting to college.

Throughout the morning at Coyote Launchpad, students explored opportunities that can take their college experience beyond the classroom, from undergraduate research and study abroad to internships and career development.

At a research symposium, they got a glimpse of the work CSUSB students are already doing in fields ranging from geological sciences, computer science and engineering to psychology, biology, physics and management. “So You Wanna Research?” gave students another introduction to research opportunities and how they can get involved.

Students also got to tackle one of the most practical questions before the first day of college: Where exactly is my classroom? A campus navigation activity gave them time to find their classes and get more comfortable making their way around campus before the first day of the semester.

Over lunch, students connected with faculty, asked questions and began getting to know professors who can become important sources of guidance and support during their college experience.

At the Connected Coyote Mixers in Santos Manuel Student Union North, new students had the opportunity to meet classmates, play pool and other activities, and begin turning some of those new introductions into friendships.
At the Connected Coyote Mixers in Santos Manuel Student Union North, new students had the opportunity to meet classmates and play pool and other activities. 

Then came some advice from people who know exactly what it’s like to be a CSUSB student.

During “Ask a Coyote – Real Talk Roundtables,” current students shared their experiences, answered questions and offered their newest fellow Coyotes an inside perspective on academics, campus life and adjusting to college.

The day wrapped up with Connected Coyote Mixers, where students could meet more classmates, expand their networks and begin turning some of those new introductions into friendships. Event drawings and prizes added a little extra fun along the way.

By the end of Coyote Launchpad, students had done more than find their classrooms. They had met professors and fellow students, discovered new possibilities for their college experience and taken their first steps toward finding their place at CSUSB.

At the mixers, new students begin turning some of those new introductions into friendships.
At the mixers, new students begin turning some of those new introductions into friendships.