What we do
student programs
The list of Caltech Y programs is extensive. As a student-led organization, the Caltech Y is open to the vision and direction of the student leaders; however, programs generally fall within 5 categories: Educational Programs, Outdoor Adventures, Community Service, Social Activities and Cultural Events.
Subscribe to our weekly announcements to keep up to date with our range of student programs.
tutoring
The Rise Program is a low-cost afterschool math and science-focused tutoring program that serves public school students between grades 8 and 12. The tutoring takes place on the Caltech campus Monday-Thursday from 4pm-6pm. Students attend 2 days a week. Caltech undergraduate and graduate students serve as the academic tutors and mentors. The program is designed to help students gain greater competency in math foundations, improve skills in math and science, and prepare students for college-level math and science. The tutoring is set up one-on-one or in small groups (no more than 2 students per tutor). A typical session can range from homework help or studying for a class test to reviewing foundational skills. The program is offered on Caltech's campus, online, and at John Muir High School.
student awards
ACT Award
The Advocating Change Together (ACT) Award offers students an opportunity to explore a cause and make a difference. Students determine what cause to address and propose an advocacy, service, or learning experience to help them get educated and engaged.
The 2023 applications are available and due no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, October 23rd
For more information on the award, please click the button below or contact us.
Studenski award
The Studenski Award - established in memory of Paul Studenski, a Caltech student who was killed in an accident while traveling across the United States- is awarded to a Caltech undergraduate who having reached a crossroads would benefit from time away from the academic community to find clarity, obtain a better understanding of self, and to explore possible directions for the future.
The 2023 applications are available and due no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, October 23rd
For more information on the award, please click the button below or contact us.
hummel /gray travel fund
The Patrick Hummel and Harry Gray Award - established with gifts from Carla and Paul Hummel, Patrick Hummel, and Shirley and Harry Gray, Arnold O. Beckman Professor of Chemistry and Beckman Institute Founding Director - supports undergraduate travel that promotes professional and leadership development and broadens students' perspective as responsible citizens of the world.
The 2023 applications are available and due no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, October 23rd
For more information on the award, please click the button below or contact us.
HASTRUP ADVENTURE AWARD
The Hastrup Adventure Award - established in memory of Gunilla Hastrup, a long-time Caltech Y Board Member - provides students the opportunity to take a break from the rigors of academic life, to delve into their family roots or history, and/or explore a different culture. The award captures her devotion to student welfare, as well as her spirit of adventure, love of travel, and belief in maintaining strong cultural ties.
The 2023 applications are available and due no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, October 23rd
For more information on the award, please click the button below or contact us.
Beckman Political AWARD
The Arnold O. Beckman Political Award provides students an opportunity to explore various facets of elective government, both as possible careers in government and to increase general understanding of the legislative process - local, state, and national. Students propose an experience such as working in a government official’s office, a fellowship or internship in a governmental or policy office (e.g. AAAS or NAS), conducting research on the election process, participating in Congressional Visits Day, or a policy-related program such as the Independent California Colleges Advocate Program (ICCAP), etc. that meets the goals of the award. Proposed experiences can span multiple days to several months.
The 2023 applications are available and due no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, October 23rd
For more information on the award, please click the button below or contact us.
Rentals & sales
We are pleased to announce the official launch of our new website for Caltech Y gear rentals! The platform has been upgraded and streamlined to enhance your rental experience.
To facilitate a seamless rental process, please follow these instructions when you are ready to reserve items:
-
Follow the prompts to create an account, providing all required information
-
Register using your Caltech/JPL affiliated email address
-
-
Select your desired pickup and drop-off dates
-
Gear pickup and drop-offs are available exclusively on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10AM-4PM
-
-
Make your payment through our secure system
-
Review and sign the required waiver forms
-
Submit your request
Please note that the request submission alone does not guarantee the reservation. A member of the Caltech Y will approve your request, at which point your gear will be reserved. Your payment will be refunded if your request is not approved.
Please be sure to make the reservation no later than 5pm of the business day before your desired rental pick-up day.
If you have any questions, please call (626) 395-6163 or email us at caltechy@caltech.edu. We look forward to serving your gear rental needs!
Updated March 2024
For Movie Tickets please email caltechy@caltech.edu
movie tickets
Room reservations are available at limited capacity Updated March 3rd 2022
room rentals
The Caltech Y has one room available for reservation for meetings or small programs. This room has access to a restroom.
Reservation Periods begin:
Fall: August 30
Winter: November 30
Spring: February 30
Summer: May 30
*Room reservations must be re-requested at the beginning of each term for continuous weekly reservations*
The Frank Dryden Multi-Purpose Room is a larger space that is versatile for a variety of functions. It is furnished with stackable chairs and is suitable for groups up to 10. It also has a TV and VCR/DVD.
Medical masks are required to be worn indoors at all times. All individuals, including visitors, who are eligible to receive the vaccine (i.e., everyone 5 years old or older and those without an approved medical exemption) must be prepared to show proof of vaccination and booster when entering any indoor campus space.
Room Reservation Guidelines
community events
Friends events
The Caltech Y's core support comes from the generous donations of its Friends. Friends contributions have provided a financial core that has allowed the Y to help students grow into responsible world citizens. A minimum contribution of $200 per person or $400 per couple automatically qualifies you to become a Friend of the Caltech Y.