Frequently Asked Questions
Application Process / Cost / Acceptance
Who should apply for the OAI Scholars Network?
Incoming Engineering and ICS freshman who are interested in a early start at UCI. The OAI Scholars Network program is designed to help students transition from high school to college by introducing them to different resources and seminars on time management, study skills and leadership. This program will also give students hands-on experience doing team-based projects.
Where do I apply for the OAI Scholars Network?
Applicants may apply for the 2020 OAI Scholars Network at the following application link.
How many students are accepted into the program?
The program typically only enrolls 20 students.
How long until I hear of my acceptance in the program after application completion?
Selecting students for attendance is a multi-step process. Once all applications have been received, students should expect decisions in two weeks.
If I am selected, when do I need to make a decision on my plans to participate in the program?
Upon acceptance, students have one week to confirm their attendance.
How much does it cost to participate in this program?
This program cost is $3,000 per participant.
When is the payment due?
A $3,000 payment is due by the week before the program begins to secure your spot in the program.
Are there any scholarships available?
Scholarships are available upon request for the OAI Scholars Network through the online application. We currently have partial and full scholarship options available to offset costs for the program.
When do I receive more information about the program?
Once you are selected to participate in the program, additional information will be sent to you via email.
Program Activities
What activities should I expect?
Every day will vary, but you can expect each day to consist of 5-6 hours of courses and training related to math, science, engineering, and computer science. Depending on the project, group work, individual work, hands-on experience, and computer programming can be expected. Activities will include: guest speakers, lab and industry tours, and workshops that will help you prepare for a smooth transition from high school to UCI. In the evenings and weekend, group social activities are planned.
Am I required to have a laptop computer for the program?
You will need access to a computer during the length of the program. If you have financial issues or concerns, please contact Dr. Sharnnia Artis or Ernest Garrison at oai@uci.edu.
How long is the program?
The program is a 2-week program that runs from August 17-28, 2020.
Do the courses we take during OAISN count for credit for our freshman year?
No.
Do we receive grades in the courses?
No.
Where will I stay?
Housing for the OAI Scholar’s Network Summer Transition Program will be located on UC Irvine’s Campus.
Will I have a roommate?
Yes, all participants will have a roommate.
What other activities will we do during the OAI Scholars Network?
You will have the opportunity to meet a number of people who will be involved in your academic career at UCI – faculty, staff, other students, and corporate representatives. The schedule includes activities such as a ropes course, student outings, and guest speakers.
Do I have to attend the program on the weekend?
Yes, there are weekend activities planned.
Can I miss a day because of a prior work, vacation, or activities I have already planned?
No. Students are required to attend every day because this is an intensive 2-week team-based training and project course, so missing at least one day may put you behind on your project.
May my parents come to visit?
Yes. Parents and immediate family members are approved visitors.
I would like to leave some of my possessions here instead of taking them home and having to bring them back when I move in. What can I do?
You may not leave your belongings in the residence hall. You will need to rent a unit in a local storage facility.
I have been accepted to participate in the OAI Scholars Network – now what?
You will receive an acceptance packet via email with several forms to return.
Should I register for Student Parent Orientation Program (SPOP)?
Yes. You should register for Student Parent Orientation Program (SPOP) freshmen orientation as directed. More information about SPOP will be sent to you in May. OAI recommends incoming freshman to choose the earliest SPOP date to secure the best quality of classes. The OAI Scholars Network will not provide participants their own SPOP session. If you have registered for SPOP during the OAI Scholars Network program dates, we will work with you to change your dates if you are accepted into the OAI Scholars Network.
Can I drive to the program?
You may drive yourself to the program, but you are required to leave your keys with the Program Director. You will also be required to purchase a parking permit. Due to issues of liability, you are not allowed to drive during the duration of the program.
Health and Safety
Is UCI in a safe area?
Irvine, California has been voted the safest city in the US multiple times. The campus itself is patrolled by the UC Irvine Police Department, and there are multiple emergency call stations located around the campus.
What do I do in an emergency?
As always if there is an emergency, call 911. All program activities will have faculty, staff, and graduate members that will also be able to assist.
For further questions, please contact the OAI Scholars Network at oai@uci.edu.