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First-Year Success Research Institute (FSRI)

FSRI logo

The First-Year Success Research Institute (FSRI) offers a transformative summer residential experience designed for students from historically excluded communities in STEM.

Our programming is comprised of a comprehensive summer orientation, academic support program, engaging research project, and community-building activities. FSRI facilitates a successful transition from high school (or community college) to Caltech by using a living-learning community model to help students adapt to collaborative learning, build a solid research foundation, receive mentorship from dedicated staff and faculty, and develop meaningful relationships within a community of like-minded peers.

FSRI begins in the summer prior to students' first term at Caltech and all major expenses are covered for students admitted to the program (e.g. travel to Caltech, housing, meals, bedding and toiletries, field trips, etc.). Programming and student support services continue into the academic year. Students remain a part of the FSRI community throughout their undergraduate career at Caltech and beyond graduation.

Students admitted to Caltech may apply through their Beaver Breakroom portal starting December 9, 2023.

Priority deadline: April 8, 2024 (9:00 am Pacific Time)*

Final deadline: May 6, 2024 (9:00 am Pacific Time)

*Recommended for international students

FSRI summer programming includes:

  • Asynchronous Math 0 (Transition to Mathematical Proofs) modules
  • 3-week virtual (synchronous) computer programming course
  • 6-week introductory course to Caltech mathematics
  • 5-week scientific writing course
  • 5-week summer research assignment with a Caltech faculty member, postdoctoral scholar, or graduate student
  • Professional development workshops and introduction to campus resources
  • Research poster development and presentation
  • FSRI Peer Mentoring Program
  • Group field trips (e.g. Santa Monica Beach, Downtown Los Angeles, Universal Studios, etc.)
  • Service-learning project
  • Fun social activities

Some important 2024 FSRI summer dates:

  • June - July: Virtual (asynchronous) Math 0 - Intro to Mathematical Proofs course
  • July 8 - July 26: Virtual (synchronous) Intro to Computer Programming course
  • July 28: Move-in day to Caltech
  • July 29 - September 20: In-person programming begins (residential experience, workshops, research projects, Intro to Caltech Mathematics course, Scientific Writing course)
  • October 2024 - June 2025: On-going academic year programming

FSRI continues into the academic year with programming for all FSRI cohorts (first-years, sophomores, juniors, and seniors).

Our academic year programming includes:

  • On-going student support services from dedicated FSRI staff
  • FSRI Peer Mentoring Program
  • Professional development workshops and opportunities
  • Faculty lunch talks
  • Networking events with alumni
  • Filed trips and fun social events

Office Hours
9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Monday - Friday
Address
1200 E California Blvd
Mail Code MC 255-86
Pasadena, California 91125
Contact
fsri@caltech.edu
626.395.3488