Puente Project
Accelerated Instruction, Counseling, and Mentorship
The Puente Project is a national program designed to increase the number of underrepresented students who transfer to universities. Puente builds a community of motivated students by providing English writing instruction paired with a college success skills class. Puente also connects students with mentors from the community and with other Puente students at community colleges around the state and through cultural events. Puente is open to all students.
Puente is open to all students who have the desire and commitment to be part of a cohort.
What is a cohort and what does committing entail?
- A group of students that progress through the program together, at the same pace taking the Puente courses. This is a year long program which starts in the Fall and continues into the Spring.
Why is this a benefit?
- More of a team or community feel
- Higher level of comfortability
- Stronger peer support
- Take the Puente courses in the Fall and Spring
- Want to transfer to a 4-year university
- Participate in our Puente events and trips
Puente students work individually with the Puente counselor until they transfer from American River College, exploring career options, developing an academic educational plan, and identifying lifetime goals.
Email ARCpuente@arc.losrios.edu to set up an appointment
Puente offers mentoring by local professionals who volunteer 15-18 hours during the academic year. Puente mentors support faculty by building social and cultural capital needed for future success as college students and career professionals. All mentors are trained to follow mentor guidelines and serve as successful career role models.
Mentors must have at least their bachelor’s degree to participate.
For questions or to become a mentor please email us at: ARCpuente@arc.losrios.edu
Puente Club is open to all American River College students. Please visit the ARC Puente instagram for club meeting dates, club events and club general information.
What if can't take the required ENGWR and HCD course, can I still be part of the Puente community?
- Absolutely! You are welcome to participate in the Puente Club! They meet during the semester to build community and participate in many on/off campus events. New members are always welcomed! To learn more about the club follow us on Instagram @ARC_Puente
Can I take one class (HCD or ENGWR) instead of both and still be part of the Puente Project?
- Our hope's are that you participate in both classes so you can take advantage of the counseling and English writing instructions from our Puente faculty. But connect with our counselor for options- please email us at ARCPuente@arc.losrios.edu
Contact
Hours
Monday through Thursday:
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location
UNITE Center Located in the Student Center Building
Staff
- Puente Counselor and Coordinator
Carmelita Palomares - Puente English Professor and Coordinator
Cathy Arellano - Puente Student Personnel Assistant
Katia Morales