Salesian is a rich cultural mosaic, known for its academic rigor, outstanding athletics program, diverse co-curriculars, and notable service to the community.
Located in Richmond, California within the San Francisco Bay Area, the secluded and gated campus spans 21 acres surrounded by majestic redwood and pine trees, the newly renovated Wildcat Creek, and flowering gardens.
What makes me Salesian is the values I live by that relate to Salesian’s fundamentals and teachings. I live by kindness, respect, and supporting each other. We all support each other which is what Salesian is all about.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) At school, my “family” is a diverse group of friends who come from various backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences. Each of my friends play a key role in my high school career, and we all have a strong bond built on trust and support. My teachers also play a pivotal role in this family, offering guidance and encouragement, helping me grow not only academically but also personally. The sense of community each person at Salesian brings truly makes school feel like home.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose this school because of its strong sense of community and its emphasis on both academic excellence and personal growth. I wanted a school that would encourage me to be a well-rounded person and succeed in the things necessary to prepare me for a bright future.
What excites you about Salesian? What excites me most about school are the opportunities offered. Everyday, students have a chance to learn new things and challenge themselves in different ways. Whether it’s engaging in dynamic classroom discussions, participating in hands-on projects, or exploring new interests through clubs and activities, there’s always something that pushes and excites me.
GRADE LEVEL | SOPHOMORE
MIDDLE SCHOOL | HERCULES MIDDLE SCHOOL
How do you celebrate being Salesian?
Being Salesian means living with a strong sense of community, faith, and service, and we celebrate that every day through our actions. It’s taking part in school Masses, volunteering for community service projects, or celebrating Salesian heritage during special events; there’s always an opportunity to show what it means to be part of this family.
What is your favorite subject/ class and why? My favorite subject is definitely mathAlgebra 2. I like how it’s so straightforward – either you get the answer or you don’t. Plus, there’s something satisfying about solving problems and seeing the solution.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) I have many close friends that have the same interests as me, many of them play sports, video games, and overall enjoy each other’s presence.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because of the very welcoming environment. I have many upperclassmen friends that I bonded with on the baseball team.
What excites you about Salesian? Something that excites me about school is coming every day ready to learn and trying my hardest to retain the information presented.
What do you take PRIDE in at Salesian? I take pride in my grades, my involvement in sports, and my relationships with my friends. I study as hard as I can and get help with my schoolwork if needed. I also take pride in being an athlete, willing to listen to my coaches and teammates to make the whole team better. Lastly, I pride myself on surrounding myself with the right people.
What else are you involved in?
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to Salesian’s diversity by representing Indian-Americans in the AAPI. I get to share my cultural background and learn about others’ as well, helping create a more inclusive environment. At Salesian, many people come from different backgrounds which makes our school such a special and diverse place.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? The part of the oratory that speaks to me the most is ‘School.’ Salesian’s focus on education isn’t just about academics - it’s about shaping us into responsible, caring individuals. The ‘School’ aspect of the oratory is where we also learn how to be leaders, work together, and contribute positively to our community. It’s where we build the skills and values that will help us grow beyond high school.
How do you celebrate being Salesian? I celebrate being Salesian by representing the school even outside of class.
What is your favorite subject/class and why? My favorite subject is English because it has always been my strong suit, and I enjoy reading.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to the diversity that is so great at Salesian by respecting and accepting everyone regardless of race or the way people look. That is what I love about my school. One hobby that I partake in that leads to a greater sense of diversity is photography. I photograph so many different people, places, and things and share my art with others.
What else are you involved in?
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of? My biggest accomplishment thus far is making the Varsity baseball team my freshman year.
Clubs/Organizations Ping Pong Club, Salesian Red & Black Basketball Camp, Xfit Gym, Red & Black Newspaper Club, Photography
GRADE LEVEL | SOPHOMORE
MIDDLE SCHOOL | ST. PATRICK
What makes me Salesian is the amount of effort I put into my studies and being a part of the Varsity baseball team.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Salesian has helped me grow by surrounding me with people who have different interests and backgrounds. I am grateful to be a part of this special community.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian helps me feel like I belong by giving me opportunities to be a part of all of the activities. What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) Salesian is special because of the ways to ensure student success. I really appreciate the FLEX (block) Schedule because of the opportunities to get involved and to meet with teachers.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? Playground really speaks to me with regard to baseball. It brings me immense joy because it is a space for me to just use my skills and play the game that I know and love.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? I want to leave a lasting impact on the world by giving back and making myself known for the good things I accomplish.
OUR CURRICULUM IS
college preparatory
Salesian College Preparatory curriculum offers a balance among college preparatory courses, faith-based education, enrichment opportunities, and service learning.
Our block schedule prioritizes time for projects, collaboration, and co-curricular activities to encourage creative exploration. Salesian’s dedicated faculty is committed to each student’s academic success.
Our small class sizes in both core subjects and electives allow for personalized instruction, strong student-teacher relationships, and greater engagement. This individualized attention helps students build strong academic foundations, develop critical thinking skills, and gain confidence, all of which are essential for college success.
PLTW Biomedical Pathway is an award-winning STEM elective designed for students who excel in mathematics and natural sciences and are interested in the fields of biology and medicine.
Those courses are for our most focused and dedicated students who can work independently both in school and at home. Salesian's guidance counselors are able to provide more information about eligibility and registration.
Premier Academic Pathways
Y. |‘29
BODY SYSTEMS
What makes me Salesian to the four pillars of the Oratory: Home, School, Church, and Playground. I connect to Home because of my welcoming personality, School because of my consistent 4.0 GPA, Church because of my relationship with God, and Playground because of the spirit and pride I display.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian to continue my dad’s and sisters’ legacies. I was always on campus prior to attending Salesian because of my sisters’ games and events so the community already felt like home.
What excites you about Salesian? What excites me about Salesian is that the culture is student led. For example, SLAM* plans the majority of events at Salesian. By letting students lead events, it makes our school experience feel more personalized and gives the student body a voice. It also gives me an opportunity to be involved and build upon leadership skills.
How do you celebrate being Salesian? I celebrate being Salesian by attending our school events like dances and games to support my friends. I appreciate the sense of community with the people around me.
What is your favorite subject/class and why?
My favorite subject is Ethics & Social Justice because it challenges me to think about how the world works and encourages me to find how I can advocate for those around me. This class gives me the building blocks to make change.
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of? The accomplishment that I am most proud of so far is becoming Student Body President. I put a lot of work into my campaign and gained the skills to work with and lead SLAM. I am honored to represent the student body and blessed to have the opportunity to do so.
Dream college/university? I don’t have one specific university in mind yet! However, my dream college is one with a strong psychology program preferably in Southern California.
*Salesian Leadership and
GRADE LEVEL | SENIOR
MIDDLE SCHOOL | ST. PATRICK
What impact do you want to leave on the world? I want to leave an impact wherever I go, especially on the lives of people around me. I want to be remembered as someone who was a safe space for others and who lifted them up in times of struggle. I try to live by my favorite Bible verse, Ephesians 5:2 “Walk in love” by showing loving kindness always with an offering hand.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? Although I connect to each part of the Oratory, Home speaks to me the most because it emphasizes the importance of an inclusive and loving environment. The sense of belonging that is part of Salesian is important because it gives all students a safe space to be a part of to express who they are. It also brings people together in community allowing a sense of comfort and vulnerability to be oneself.
What else are you involved in?
Girls Tennis & Girls
Clubs/Organizations Student Body President, Diversity Club President, AAPI President, Student Ambassadors
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian makes me feel like I belong because of the personalized experience. With student life, everyone gets a unique experience based on choice. The sports, clubs, and leadership I partake in gives me a place to be myself and develop each of my interests. These passions also give me a community of like-minded individuals.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) The people I choose to surround myself with are all supportive and allow me to be my full self while inspiring me to be the person I strive to be.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) I have found a place I belong in the diverse and inclusive community of Salesian. My friend group includes people from all sorts of backgrounds. Instead of feeling cliquey, it feels like a family.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because it offered the balance of rigorous academics and competitive athletics that I was looking for. It felt like a well-rounded environment where I could grow in all areas.
What excites you about Salesian?
The opportunity to meet new people and build lasting friendships is what excites me about Salesian. I am also motivated by the challenge that comes with a college preparatory education.
What is your favorite subject/class and why?
My favorite subject is math because there’s always a clear answer. I enjoy the logic and problem-solving it requires, and it’s satisfying to know when you’ve gotten something exactly right.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to Salesian’s diversity by bringing my unique background and perspective to the community. Being part of groups like AAAK and the Hidden Genius Project allows me to share my experiences while also learning from others.
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of? My biggest accomplishment so far is maintaining straight A’s in a rigorous academic schedule, resulting in an overall 4.6 GPA.
What else are you involved in?
Athletics
Track & Field
Clubs/Organizations
Hidden Genius Project, Debate Club, Stock Market Club, AAAK, Medical Science Club, Frisbee Club, Ping Pong Club
What do you take PRIDE in at Salesian? I take PRIDE in contributing to a positive and respectful environment that makes Salesian.
SENIOR
OAKLAND SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS
is my continuous
resilience. I strive to support others while also staying dedicated through the challenges I face.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian makes me feel like I belong because of its inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed and accepted. I’ve found friends from all different backgrounds who come together as one group, which helps me feel connected.
What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) Salesian is special because it combines strong academics, competitive athletics, and a supportive arts program all in one place.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? The Playground part of the oratory speaks to me because it represents a space for connection, fun, and community outside of the classroom.
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it? My dream college is an Ivy League school on the East Coast, specifically Columbia University. Salesian has prepared me by providing a rigorous academic environment and encouraging me to take on challenges that build both my knowledge and work ethic.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? I want to leave a positive impact by inspiring others to overcome challenges and believe in their potential. I hope to use my skills and experiences to create opportunities and provide inspiration for others.
YOUR TALENT
the arts
Salesian’s Visual and Performing Arts program fosters self-expression, creativity, critical thinking, and social awareness.
We see the arts as essential to personal growth, offering students opportunities in visual art, dance, music, and drama to express themselves and inspire change. Through artistic expression, students gain the confidence to help create a more just and inclusive world.
Unique to Salesian, the Visual and Media Arts (VMA) Pathway continues its unrivaled growth as a four-year academic program that offers instruction in the practice, tradition, and criticism of visual and digital media arts and design. The VMA Pathway nurtures skilled and knowledgeable art makers who are prepared to engage in creative endeavors and potential careers in the arts, entertainment, and digital media industries. Pathway
SALESIAN’S ANNUAL TORY DEORIAN VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS SHOWCASE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO RECOGNIZE, HONOR, AND ENJOY SALESIAN STUDENT’S AMAZING WORK EACH YEAR.
The Visual and Media Arts (VMA) Pathway is a four-year academic program that offers instruction in the practice, tradition, and criticism of visual and digital media arts and design.
Senior Band Performance at Spring Music Concert
Tory DeOrian Showcase Claymation Award
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of?
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) I consider the whole Salesian community my family. My friends motivate me to do better, and my teachers care about our growth as students. It feels like a second home where everyone can look out for one another.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because of the diverse community and challenging classes. My uncle and cousins went here, and seeing how much the school helped them grow made me want to be part of it too.
What excites you about Salesian? The competitiveness in sports games excites me the most. The energy from the crowd and the intensity on the field make every game feel alive, and I love getting to capture those moments through my photography.
What is your favorite subject/class and why?
My favorite class is English because it improved my speaking skills, especially when performing in plays and musicals. It gave me more confidence when expressing myself and taught me how to communicate more clearly and effectively.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to the diversity at Salesian by being part of the AAPI Club, where we share and celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures with the school community. We host events, rallies, and fundraisers throughout the year.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? An impact I want to leave on the world is kindness and compassion to inspire the youth.
My biggest accomplishment so far is maintaining a 4.0 GPA this year and being able to teach choreography to my friends and perform it at the B’Oscars.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Salesian has helped me become more confident in who I am. I’ve discovered that I’m capable of leading and taking initiative.
What else are you involved in?
Clubs/Organizations AAPI, Student Ambassadors, Student Ministry, Red & Black Newspaper, Dance Club President
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian makes me feel like I belong by always making space for everyone’s voice and encouraging us to support one another. Whether in the classroom, on stage, or around campus, I’ve always felt included and valued.
What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) Salesian is special because it’s a place where I felt truly seen for who I am. My friends and teachers have helped me grow to be who I am today.
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it?
My dream colleges are UCLA, UC Berkeley, and UCSD. Salesian has prepared me for it by challenging me academically while helping me grow as a leader.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) Although I came in with many friends, I was able to make so much more because of the supportive and kind community. The teachers at Salesian have been nothing but great, always making sure students like me feel cared and provided for.
What excites you about Salesian? The athletic competition always excites me about Salesian. Whether it’s watching football, volleyball, or basketball games, or even playing in a basketball game, it is always fun to compete.
How do you celebrate being Salesian? I celebrate being Salesian by getting involved in the community by doing extra volunteer work around the school, whether it’s working the camps or touring potential students.
What is your favorite subject/class and why? I enjoy learning in environments where my teachers help me understand the curriculum in fun ways. I am in the Visual & Media Arts Pathway (VMA Pathway) and I enjoy that!
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to the diversity at Salesian by having a unique personality, and always celebrating my roots as I am Asian and African American.
What else are you involved in?
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of? My accomplishment that I am most proud of is being selected for a mural painting in the Tiny Village Spirit. This project is for misplaced youth in Richmond. Ms. Shushan offered every student in the class this opportunity to submit work, and I am so grateful I was selected.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Salesian has helped me grow to be more outgoing and truly express myself. At Salesian I have discovered that I can really open up, be expressive, and make friends quickly as a result.
SOPHOMORE
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
What makes me Salesian to express myself through musicals and dancing. Salesian has given me a space to build confidence and connect with others. is my kindness and eagerness to always help others. Being around thoughtful and encouraging people
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian makes me feel like I belong by having a club for almost anything you could think of. There is almost a guarantee that us students will find a space to belong.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? All aspects of the oratory speak to me, but the one that calls to me the most is Home. I believe that my home can be anywhere as long as it is with the people and things that I love.
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it? One of my dream colleges is University of California, Berkeley. Salesian has prepared me by encouraging me to be punctual with ggrades and submissions. It has also taught me to always go above and beyond.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? I want to leave the Earth knowing that I made people comfortable and always lifted others up when they were in need. Even if I wasn’t able to affect the whole world in the end, if I was able to change the perspective of a small group of people, I have fulfilled my purpose.
What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) The community at Salesian is hands down the most outstanding factor from other schools.
CONNECT BELONG
Faith Families | Each student participates in a Faith Family, comprising students from 9-12th grades, who meet regularly throughout the year, culminating in Salesian’s annual Service Day.
Retreats | Annual class retreats are designed to cultivate community and encourage students to explore their faith and spirituality more fully.
Service Learning | In order to instill in our students the importance of volunteerism and investing in one’s community and giving back, each of our students must fulfill their personal service commitments throughout the academic year. Students participate in four Service Projects annually, benefiting local and global communities.
Student Leadership and Ministry (SLAM) | SLAM is the collective form of student leadership and ministry. The mission of SLAM is to create a culture for good, a lever to serve the greater school community. By working together, SLAM members encourage spirit and cohesiveness throughout the entire school.
Campus Ministry | The Campus Ministry Team (CMT) is the heart of our school’s community-focused activities and champions community toy drives, fundraisers for international relief causes, and local carnivals and events for children in the community.
TUTORING/COLLABORATION
Twice a week students have a 35-minute flex period built into their daily schedule to allow for more individualized learning and social activities. Faculty is available Monday - Thursday after school for tutoring or during a Flex period. Additionally, through a partnership with the UC Berkeley School of Education, UC Berkeley undergraduates serve as oncampus tutors once a week after school.
PERSONAL WELLNESS
In addition to two personal counselors, students have access to The Wellness Center, located on the first floor. This device-free zone offers students a safe, quiet and calming place to reduce stress and anxiety. This space was created to aid in early interventions for students experiencing social, emotional, or mental health challenges that affect learning in the classroom.
ACADEMIC SUCCESS PROGRAM
For students who require additional support, Salesian offers an Academic Success Program (ASP), a college preparatory program for highly motivated students who benefit from building the study skills required to succeed in high school and college. ASP is provided to students with IEPs and/ or learning differences, low test scores on the HSPT entrance exam, teacher or counselor recommendations, and students with 504 plans.
“WITHOUT CONFIDENCE AND LOVE, THERE CAN BE NO TRUE EDUCATION.”
-St. John Bosco
What makes me Salesian is helping others and doing my best.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because I felt a strong sense of community as soon as I stepped on campus. I really valued that connection with different students and teachers.
What do you take PRIDE in at Salesian? I am proud to wear my Salesian gear outside of school and represent Salesian wherever I go.
What is your favorite subject/class and why? My favorite class would be French. I love learning a new language and learning about other cultures.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I bring diversity through my involvement in the Visual Performing Arts program, as an Ambassador, and as I share my ideas and learn from others.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? I have met different people through clubs and summer camps and have developed my leadership skills in many ways.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian makes me feel like I belong because my teachers talk to me in the halls and Principal Farr goes out of his way to get to know all the students.
How do you celebrate being Salesian? By wearing my pride gear at school and outside of school.
SOPHOMORE
SCHOOL OF THE MADELEINE
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it? My dream schools are USC, Stanford, University of Colorado Boulder, San Diego State Universitym and UC Davis.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? I want to show the world to never give up on your dreams even if it’s out of reach.
What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) Our principal is very personable and approachable. He relates to us, especially since he’s an alumni. The Admissions team also makes your visit at Salesian special.
What else are you involved in?
Athletics
Latino Club, Student Ambassadors
Clubs/Organizations
Cross Country, Girls Soccer
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) My teachers and friends support me in any way they can in and outside of school.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? The part of the oratory that speaks to me most at Salesian is Home. From my first day, I felt welcomed and supported by both teachers and students. There’s a strong sense of community here and people look out for each other.
What makes me Salesian of all people. I am passionate about community, I am passionate about the advancement and improvement of my community, and I am committed to achieving academic excellence.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because I felt the environment would help me grow as a person and truly discover who I am. From the very beginning of my application process, I felt genuinely welcomed and supported.
What excites you about Salesian? While attending Salesian I get excited about learning new things and ultimately being part of a great community.
What do you take PRIDE in at Salesian? I take pride in knowing that if I continue to pursue academic excellence, Salesian will provide me with the opportunities to achieve higher education just as so many successful students before me have.
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of? My biggest accomplishment so far has been successfully balancing academics and athletics, and excelling in both.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Salesian has helped me grow both spiritually and academically. Before coming here, I didn’t feel as connected to God as I do now. Through the supportive community and faith filled environment, my relationship with God has strengthened.
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it? My dream college is Howard University. I felt Salesian’s focus on academic excellence challenges me to push myself and accomplish my goals.
GRADE LEVEL | JUNIOR
What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) I believe Salesian is a great school that provides students with valuable opportunities to succeed both academically and personally.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? The impact I want to leave on this world has to do with kindness and giving. I want to help homeless people to find homes and share kindness around the world. My overall goal is for everyone in the world to be happy.
What else are you involved in?
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? Home speaks to me the most because whenever I come to Salesian, I feel like I’m entering a second home, a place where I feel welcomed, supported, and truly cared for.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? As a Student Ambassador, I have the privilege of welcoming potential students and helping them feel as welcome as I did when I first arrived.
What is your favorite subject/class and why? My favorite subject is English. Ever since I was young, I’ve enjoyed learning new words and expressing myself creatively.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? The values at Salesian mirror my own values, which contributes to how comfortable I feel.
FORTUNA MIDDLE SCHOOL
Compete with
The Salesian Pride includes 17 sports with 27 competition levels (Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshman) across 3 seasons (Fall, Winter, Spring) and in Divisions 1 - 6.
Over 70% of Salesian students participate in athletics. Salesian College Preparatory has a well-deserved reputation as the “Home of Champions.”
What makes me Salesian inclusiveness when it comes to others, as well as my humility.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) I appreciate my great friends at Salesian because they are always there for me.
Why did you choose Salesian? The Salesian Alumni I met have shown me tangible characteristics of a successful person.
What excites you about Salesian? The community here is built on a foundation of love, compassion, and trust. I feel that another thing that makes this community special is that it does not take much effort or time to become intertwined with the people.
What is your favorite subject/class and why? Project Lead the Way (PLTW) because it is challenging but rewarding to learn about. PLTW has specifically given me so much knowledge about the human body and preventive procedures that I probably would have never acquired on my own or in any other classes.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I am Ghanaian. I also come from a small secluded town up North.
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of? I am most proud of being selected as the NCS Scholar Athlete of the Year, and I am most proud of my teammates for growing with me on and off the court.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Salesian has helped me understand time management, and how you must sacrifice what you want to do in order to accomplish greater and greater things.
REDWOOD ACADEMY OF UKIAH
GRADE LEVEL | SENIOR
SENIOR ST. PAUL
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it? I am looking to play basketball at the Division 1 level, and Salesian has helped me get to the point where I can say I have reached my goal. Salesian has prepared me for the collegiate level by refining my time management skills. Playing basketball in a very serious program while also pursuing an academic career is not easy, but Salesian does a great job of helping me through this process. Time management is a skill that I can maintain throughout my entire life, not just high school and college.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong?
Salesian has counselors who check up on the students. I am able to talk to any teacher about anything as well.
What else are you involved in?
Clubs/Organizations Pokémon Club, AAAK, Ping Pong Club
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? Home. This school is literally like a home to me. The interactions, the amount of time I spend here each and every day, as well as the things I’ve learned while on campus.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) My friends are God-sent. They have a perfect understanding of when to go from a goofy conversation to a serious one. They are also very understanding of my feelings which I appreciate. The staff at school are pretty great too. They are very passionate about teaching their subject, which I admire. Teachers like Mr. Barkett and Ms. Mac are perfect examples of this, when a student needs help they go out of their way to explain things for their students to understand.
What excites you about Salesian? The student body excites me. As a SLAM member, I interact with the student body more than ever, and it brings me joy to plan events for Salesian students to enjoy.
How do you celebrate being Salesian? I celebrate being Salesian by showing school spirit. One, by being a cheerleader and two, by going out of my way to participate in the spirit days.
What else are you involved in?
Athletics Cheer, Swimming & Diving
Clubs/Organizations AAAK, Student Ambassadors, SLAM, HEAT Danceline, National Coalition of 100 Black Women Positive Steps Program
What is your favorite subject/ class and why? My favorite subject is math. I consider math fun, it stimulates my brain and makes me think. When you get a wrong answer to a problem it’s your responsibility and nobody else’s. It holds you accountable for your mistakes and highlights your strengths.
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it? My dream college is Howard University. Salesian has prepared me for it by emphasizing its main oratory pillars. Those pillars helped me look for values in colleges so I could feel at home away from home.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Before coming to Salesian I didn’t have the confidence in myself that I do now. Having peers and teachers to look up to helped me gain the confidence to be myself. As an upperclassman I hope to inspire others to be comfortable in their own skin.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Its community. There is someone for anyone here at Salesian, you just have to be seeking others. Those people will end up being your forever friends and if not, they will put you in the direction of some better ones.
What do you think makes Salesian special? (How is Salesian different than other schools?) Salesian is a school that will push you towards success. The staff will see through and will help you get better, not only as a student, but as a person.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? Home speaks to me the most. Growing up I always felt isolated even though I was surrounded by others. At Salesian I’ve found people that make me feel seen and at home. I know I could go to school and have a second home waiting for me.
Buongiorno, Salesian!
dias!
Bonjour
Buongiorno, Salesian!
Salesian worldwide
Salesian College Preparatory offers a robust domestic and international travel program.
The travel program challenges students beyond the traditional classroom experience in their development of becoming global citizens. Salesian’s travel program complements the academic and religious studies.
Immersion trips to Europe, like Italy, focus on several Roman Catholic pilgrimage sites and regional cuisines. Spain and Morocco are the sites of capstone trips, focusing on the artistic and architectural marvels of the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa. For the French program, students travel to Paris, where they meet local artmakers and college students, learn to cook à la française, and explore the cultural history of the City of Light. Salesian partners with its French-
YOUR SUCCESS STARTS HERE.
SALESIAN TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
speaking sister school, Le Salésien, in Québec, Canada, offering a twin visit program.
Salesian College Preparatory strongly believes learning does not end in the classroom but is meant to continue in the world at large, whether throughout the United States or abroad. Salesian offers students the opportunity to become culturally competent and immerse themselves in learning experiences, worldwide.
Salesian is proud to offer daily shuttle transportation service throughout the Bay Area.
The program helps meet the needs of commuting and working families by providing a safe and reliable means of transportation to and from school. We have three current routes, but new routes are implemented as needed.
Learn about our transportation program by scanning the QR code. RIDE WITH US.
COLLEGE BOUND with no boundaries
Salesian graduates have continued their collegiate and postgraduate academic careers in a vast number of colleges and universities across the country, including all UCs and CSUs as well as Cornell, Hampton, Harvard, Howard, Johns Hopkins, Spelman, Stanford, USC, and Yale.
“The HBCU college tour reminded me of my rich heritage, the importance of Black history and vibrant culture. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and cannot wait to be a part of a university that values not only academics but also the importance of empowering one another. Education is not just about books; it’s about finding a place where I truly belong.” - Gabriel, ‘25
The University of Arizona
The University of Alabama
Tuskegee University
University of Southern California
University of California, Los Angeles
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Santa Barbara
Berklee College of Music
Boston College
University of Massachusetts
Johns Hopkins University
Georgetown University
Michigan State University
Jackson State University
View a glimpse of Gabriel’s Salesian experience.
University of California, Irvine
University of California, San Diego
California Polytechnic State
University, San Luis Obispo
Stanford University
Colorado State University
University of Connecticut (Uconn)
Yale University
Howard University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Spelman College
Morehouse College
University of Hawaii at Hilo
University of Hawai’i at Mānoa
University of Chicago
Loyola University, Chicago
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Purdue University
Louisiana State University
Grambling State University
Xavier University of Louisiana
of our graduates enter college*
University of Nevada Las Vegas
New York University
Syracuse University
Cornell University
John Carroll University
University of Oregon
Drexel University
Penn State University
Swarthmore College
Hampton University
Fisk University
Baylor University
University of Washington
Gonzaga University
Lawrence University
OUTSIDE THE U.S.
• UNSW Sydney
• The University of British Columbia
• Ateneo De Manila University
• Bishop’s University
• Leeds Beckett University
in-state public and private universities
Accepted to 4-year universities
What makes me Salesian to kindness and making everyone feel seen, valued, and welcome. I balance being a dedicated scholar and athlete while staying true to who I am—someone who lifts others up. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or around campus, I always strive to lead with positivity and encouragement.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) My friends are a huge part of my Salesian experience—they keep me grounded, motivated, and always laughing. They’ve become like family, making every day feel meaningful and fun.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because my mom believed it would be the right fit for me. Once I visited and learned more, I realized it offered the supportive environment and opportunities I truly wanted. From that moment on, I was determined to get in and make the most of it.
What excites you about Salesian? What excites me most about Salesian is the chance to dive into new learning opportunities and challenge myself academically. I also really look forward to the school events, especially the games, where the energy and school spirit bring everyone together.
What do you take PRIDE in at Salesian? I take PRIDE in actively shaping the spirit and culture of our Salesian community. Through my roles as an AAAK leader, SLAM leader, and cheer team role model, I strive to uplift others while leading by example.
SENIOR
PINOLE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to the diversity at Salesian through my active involvement in leadership, where I work to create space and representation for all voices. As a proud Black student leader, I especially aim to inspire and uplift other Black girls to step into leadership and get involved. By showing up and leading with purpose, I help make our campus more inclusive and empowering for everyone.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? The community is even more encouraging and welcoming than they described, not just from the teachers, but the students also.
What else are you involved in?
What have you discovered about yourself?
I’ve discovered that I’m capable of more than I ever thought, especially when I stay focused and committed.
What is your biggest accomplishment so far and/or what are you most proud of?
My biggest accomplishment is maintaining a 4.0+ GPA while taking AP classes and balancing multiple leadership roles. I’m especially proud of making the cheer team all four years, even though I started with no cheer experience at all. Pushing myself has shown me how far hard work and determination can take me.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? I want to show women, especially little Black girls like me, that we can do anything we set our mind to. I want to show them that our health, feelings, and well-being matter and we cannot be left unheard.
Tell us about your family at Salesian (friends, teachers, etc.) My family at Salesian consists of my close group of friends, and my supportive teachers. I consider these people my family because they have always been there for me and stuck by my side when I needed them.
Why did you choose Salesian? I chose Salesian because I know many people who have had a great experience. When I visited Salesian, I saw a very welcoming community who learn and have fun together and I wanted to be a part of that.
What excites you about Salesian? The Project Lead The Way (PLTW) program at Salesian is what excites me the most. It is a four-year program that has taught me the fundamental knowledge to go into the medical field.
What is your favorite subject/class and why? I enjoyed my PLTW course, Medical Interventions, because I am very interested in medicine and how the human body works. My other favorite subject is math because I truly find it exciting. Every math problem is like a little puzzle which brings me satisfaction when I solve it.
Salesian is a diverse school. In what ways do you think you contribute to the diversity at Salesian? I contribute to the diversity of Salesian because I am a person of color. Both my parents immigrated from Mexico to give my sister and me a better life. I am a first generation student and graduate.
How does Salesian make you feel like you belong? Salesian makes me feel like I belong because of all the opportunities to get involved. My teachers and classmates all make the classroom an inclusive environment which encourages a safe space for learning. Also, everyone can find a space that aligns with their interests. If a club doesn’t already exist, they can start one.
What else are you involved in?
GRADE LEVEL | SENIOR
MIDDLE SCHOOL | ST. JOSEPH
What makes me Salesian is that I always remain positive and kind with everyone I encounter. Being able to put a smile on someone’s face or cheering someone up is what keeps me going. I also try to incorporate the four pillars of the Salesian Oratory into my everyday life: Home, School, Church, and Playground.
How has Salesian helped you grow? What have you discovered about yourself? Salesian has helped me grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally. It has improved my work ethic and study habits and has also made me a more social and outgoing person. I am still growing, but Salesian has definitely helped me.
What part of the oratory (Home, School, Church, Playground) speaks to you and why? The Church speaks the most to me. With a strong faith and with God by your side, you can overcome any challenge. Salesian has helped me grow in faith.
Dream college/university and how has Salesian prepared you for it?
My dream college is UC Berkeley. Salesian has prepared me by constantly challenging me and pushing me to the limits that the experts, my teachers, know I can reach.
What impact do you want to leave on the world? Whether it is one fun memory or one smile, I want to positively influence many lives. I want to treat everyone with kindness and encourage others to do the same.
CHRISTINA KARABINIS
Director of Admissions (510) 234-4433 ext. 1416 ckarabinis@salesian.com
