Puente Project

The Puente Project is a nationally recognized, award-winning program designed to empower students from all backgrounds to succeed academically and transfer to a four-year university. Puente, which means "bridge" in Spanish, connects students to a world of opportunities, offering them a pathway to higher education and future success.

Apply with the Mission Support Form

Why Join?

Joining the Puente Project at Mission College is a life-changing opportunity for students who want to earn a degree and transfer to a four-year university. Puente provides a supportive and community-driven environment where you will gain the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to succeed. Whether you're a first-generation college student or simply seeking a strong, supportive community, Puente is here to help you succeed.

Personalized Support: Receive one-on-one counseling to help you navigate your academic journey and plan for transfer to a four-year college.
Priority Registration: Get priority registration for courses, ensuring you have the classes you need to stay on track.
Mentorship: Be paired with a mentor who will guide you through your college experience and beyond, offering valuable career and life advice.
Cultural Awareness: Learn about Latino/a culture and important social issues, enriching your understanding of the world around you.
Transfer Support: Access comprehensive support to ensure a smooth transfer to a four-year university, including assistance with university applications and fees.
University Connections: Connect with successful Puente alumni who have already transferred, and get connected with other students in the program for added support.

Steps to Join

Review the Required Courses: Take time to carefully read through the required Puente courses to ensure they align with your academic goals and interests. These courses are designed to support your success and build a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking.

Complete the Mission College Support Form: Fill out the Mission College Support Form to officially express your interest in joining the Puente Program. This step helps us understand your needs and how we can best support your educational journey.

Attend a Required Puente Information Session: Join one of our engaging information sessions to learn more about what Puente offers. You'll meet program coordinators, get a detailed overview of benefits and expectations, and have a chance to ask questions before you commit.

Puente Model Components

Academic advising until transfer.
College visits and educational/cultural field trips.
Supports students through the transfer application process.
Provides information to Puente parents and family.
Counseling courses: Couns 005 & Couns 007.

English 1AX and English 1B.
Incorporates Latino literature, issues, and culture into class.
Builds a sense of community (familia) among Puente students.
Explores concepts of community, leadership, and service with students.

Professionals from the community volunteer to share their educational and career experiences.
Motivate students to reach their goals.
Foster the development of networking skills.
Serve as role models for "giving back" to the community.

Students are required to attend four events per semester.
Events are pre-scheduled and involve transfer-related activities, such as university trips, as well as learning and bonding with mentors.

Puente’s Mission

Puente’s mission is to increase the number of educationally underrepresented students who enroll in four-year colleges and universities, earn degrees, and return to their communities as leaders and mentors to future generations. Puente is open to all students, and we’re committed to helping you achieve your educational goals.

Contact Us

Veronica Hand

Counselor (Puente)

(408) 855-5362

Javier Huerta

English Faculty

(408) 855-5327

Visit Us

Questions? We’re here to support you!

Visit the Puente Study Space in the Campus Center (CC), Room 221.

Hours of Operation

Mondays through Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m