Who: 6-11th grade students and their families
What: Comienza brings together thousands of students and families for a bilingual college fair, STEM fair, hands-on workshops, and cultural celebration that inspires students to see themselves in higher education.
When: Saturday, March 14, 2026 8am to 3pm
Where: UC San Diego, LionTree Arena
Registration for the event available February 2026.
How to get involved
Experience the impact!
Since 2008, Comienza con un Sueño / It Begins with a Dream has sought to:
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Increase student and parent knowledge and understanding of college preparation and admissions requirements, testing requirements, financial aid/scholarship availability (FAFSA/Cal Grant), post-secondary options (UC, CSU, CCC, etc...), Career options, UC Personal Statement and UC application requirements.
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Increase participant knowledge of support programs aimed at retaining students at UC San Diego and promoting advanced degrees.
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Enhance the relationship between UC San Diego and the community by involving members of the community in the planning, implementation and evaluation processes of the event.
Our annual in-person event has reached up to 1,500 students, parents and guardians, and community leaders in past years. We look forward to continued growth and impact.
Support Comienza
Your gift to the Comienza Fund inspires, informs, and empowers local students to make higher education a reality.