Focused on the issues of hunger, homelessness, affordable housing, access to healthcare, education, immigration, and the criminal justice system, the San Diego Immersion will allow you to explore the principles of human dignity, solidarity, the common good, and a preferential option for the poor and vulnerable through relationship building, service, education, and reflection in the San Diego community.
We will stay at Our Lady of Guadalupe parish in Barrio Logan and spend time partnering with various social service agencies such as Catholic Charities, Father Joe's Villages, Cristo Rey High School, Nativity Prep Academy, the San Diego Public Defender’s office, and other close community partners. This immersion is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the social justice issues impacting our local community while being in relationship and solidarity with those in our community. There will be opportunities to participate in liturgy, prayer, and reflection throughout the trip. Students of all faith traditions are welcome to participate.
When is the San Diego Immersion?
January 18th- 23rd, 2026
How do I apply?
To apply, please fill out the application here. Applications are due Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 11:59 PM.
Applications are open to undergraduate students only.
"If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together."
Frequently Asked Questions
"An invitation to work for 'the culture of encounter', in a simple way, as Jesus did: not just seeing, but looking; not just hearing, but listening; not just passing people by, but stopping with them… allowing yourself to be moved with compassion."
— Pope Francis, Morning Meditation (September 13, 2016)
- To learn more about the impact of injustice in our local communities.
- To encounter the people of God in our local communities in intentional and meaningful ways.
- To deepen our spirituality and faith through a commitment to justice.
- To begin looking at the world through a critical, justice-oriented lens.
- To understand that the work of service and justice is a lifelong commitment.
- To go forth from this experience to practice a faith that does justice.
The total cost is $80 and includes all meals, transportation and lodging.
If finances are a concern please contact Kenny Van Tilburg at kvantilburg@SanDiego.edu.
We never want the cost to prevent students from enjoying our programs. Because of this, financial assistance is available! If you would like to request assistance (100% or 50%), a form will be sent once you are accepted to the immersion to be filled out. All requests will be honored, no questions asked.
If you have any questions regarding financial aid or cost, please contact Kenny Van Tilburg (kvantilburg@sandiego.edu).
Please email Kenny Van Tilburg at kvantilburg@SanDiego.edu if you have any questions.