Congratulations on taking the next step to your better, brighter, PalomarPowered future and welcome to Palomar College Rising Scholars. Palomar College Rising Scholars comprise a thriving community of formerly incarcerated people dedicated to personal and professional success. The program is also a proud member of the Rising Scholars Network that supports currently and formerly incarcerated individuals across the state.
The program encompasses two components: classes that take place at the Vista Detention Facility and an on-campus program. At the Vista Detention Facility, Palomar professors teach credit courses to currently incarcerated students. On campus at Palomar College, formerly incarcerated students can join the program anytime, and students also have the option to enroll in the summer Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program; during this summer program, formerly incarcerated students form a cohort that, together, takes classes and participates in group activities. These summer classes and activities are designed specifically for Rising Scholars students; refer to the Eligibility page to see if the Summer Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program might be a fit for you. Formerly incarcerated students are also encouraged to join the Transitions Collective student group, which works closely with the Rising Scholars program to offer even more support, activities, and fellowship.
Program Benefits
The Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program comes with many benefits including but not limited to:
- Tutoring and Peer Advising
- Check-ins and community support throughout the week
- Guest speakers, including formerly incarcerated people who are leaders in their fields
- Assistance with basic needs such as transportation, books, and other financial resources
- Counseling and student support services (academic and personal counseling, printing services, career counseling, and so on)
To apply for the Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program, the process is outlined here.
Read about our Program Support from Campus Police.
