Overview

The Puente Project is a transfer support program aimed at increasing the number of historically excluded students who enroll in four-year universities, earn degrees, and return to the community as leaders and mentors. “Puente” means “bridge” in Spanish, reflecting the program's goal of bridging students from their home culture to academia and from community college to university. Supported by the University of California, the Puente model integrates counseling, English, math, and mentoring to provide a focused, sustained, and engaging learning environment. Puente is open to ALL students.

At College of San Mateo (CSM), the Puente program welcomes ALL students who are passionate about exploring Latine literature, cultura, and lived experiences. Puente creates a supportive space rooted in cariño, fostering a sense of belonging, identity, and community.