Every summer, students from across the country gather at CIP’s five Summer@CIP locations—Berkshire (at Bard College), Brevard (UCF in Orlando), Berkeley (UC Berkeley), Bloomington (Indiana University), and Long Beach (CSULB)—to build independence, explore new environments, and create lifelong friendships.
This summer was no different. Through hands-on learning, exciting outings, and meaningful conversations, students embraced every moment and made the most of their time together.
As Matthew Kosiorek, Program Director at Summer@CIP Berkshire shared:
“Over the past two weeks, students from across the country have come together to build connections, step outside their comfort zones and try new things. From goal setting to hands-on activities, the energy everyone brought made this summer truly memorable… it’s true what they say, time flies when you’re having fun.”
At the heart of each Summer@CIP program is a powerful curriculum designed to equip students with tools for real-world success.
This summer’s workshops included:
Executive Functioning
Independent Living
Goal Setting
Stages of Friendship and Dating
Person Centered Planning
Volunteering
Social Media Safety
Budgeting and Career Exploration
Physical Wellness and Nutrition
These sessions sparked important conversations and gave students the chance to practice their skills both in and out of the classroom. At the Berkshire site, for example, students not only learned about budgeting—they applied it by making thoughtful decisions during group outings and meals.
Each student leaves with a binder of the full curriculum—a valuable resource for families to reference and continue the learning journey at home.
Across all programs, evenings often ended with a group reflection ritual called “Cherry and Pit". Students shared the day’s high point (cherry) and a challenge (pit), while also reviewing schedules and preparing for the next day. This routine nurtures self-awareness, executive functioning, and a sense of community.
Some cherries shared at CIP Berkshire included:
“Meeting new people"
“Having dinner at Bard College”
“Getting to see a returning Summer@CIP student again”
“The scavenger hunt”
“Touring Westfield State University”
“Mini golf and ice cream”
Whether on campus or out exploring, students engaged with the world around them while strengthening their independence.
In Berkshire, students visited the Springfield Science Museum & Planetarium, bowled with friends, toured Mass MoCA, met animals at Highlawn Farm, and capped their experience with a thrilling trip to Six Flags New England.
For Long Beach, students dove into SoCal living—exploring Catalina Island, volunteering for a Colorado Lagoon beach cleanup, and experiencing Knott’s Berry Farm, Get Air Trampoline Park, and even Medieval Times.
Berkeley students explored Telegraph Ave, visited the Oakland Zoo, played vintage games at the Pacific Pinball Museum, and took a historic tour of Alcatraz Island, where they reflected on personal growth while learning about resilience and history.
Bloomington students left campus to feed camels, emus, and giraffes at Wilstem Wildlife Park, enjoying private up-close animal encounters and bonding over nature-based experiences.
And in Brevard, students embraced college life at UCF, discovered wildlife at the Brevard Zoo, and celebrated their progress with a fun-filled visit to Universal Studios.
As each program wrapped up, closing ceremonies gave students the opportunity to share what they learned and reflect on their journeys. At Berkshire, a few students even presented their Person Centered Plans—highlighting the goals they set and the steps they’re taking to achieve them.
“It’s been humbling to watch them already making progress toward their personal goals,” said Program Director Matthew Kosiorek . “These moments remind us that every day holds something to celebrate, even as we learn from the pits along the way.”
Families were encouraged to keep the momentum going by revisiting student binders, engaging in meaningful conversations, and supporting strategies and routines aligned with their student’s personal goals.
Summer@CIP has always been more than a summer activity—it’s the beginning of a journey. Some friendships formed here evolve into lifelong bonds, with students returning year after year or even becoming college roommates, as one family proudly shared during the opening ceremony.
“Over the years, Summer@CIP has been the start of many meaningful friendships.”
This summer was filled with growth, joy, challenges, and triumphs. From the curriculum sessions to zoo encounters and rollercoaster rides, each moment was a stepping stone toward greater independence, confidence, and community.
Here’s to the unforgettable Summer@CIP 2025 season—and the bright futures ahead!