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< Back to all programs Washington DC Science Policy Trip TBD Information Coming Soon To Participate: About 2025 trip will be announced in the fall Join us for an exploration into science policy in the nation's capital! Our five-day trip includes lodgings, and most meals, flights - if you choose, educational discussions, and of course the opportunity to see Washington, DC landmarks like the White House, National Mall Memorials, Smithsonian Museums, and the Capital. And, because this trip is scheduled at the beginning of winter break, we understand that some may wish to stay in DC or travel to other destinations from DC following our program, or even just meet us in DC for the program, while others will want to return to LA, there will be different pricing depending on your travel selections. Also, though the trip is already subsidized, we know that some students may face exceptional financial barriers that could prevent their participation, so we are providing the option to break up the fee over time, and/or to apply for the Global Perspectives Scholarship in-order-to receive additional subsidy, if needed. Discuss science policy with those who have played a role in setting and implementing policy for the United States, including: lobbyists and advocates, science advisors and politicians, and in many cases Caltech Alumni. Notable visits from past trips included: Vice President Gore's Science Advisor, the Science Advisor to Secretaries of State Clinton and Kerry, the Director of DARPA, the Director of the NSF, policy advisors at the NIH, the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and more. Space is limited- don't miss this opportunity! Questions may be directed to us by phone (626) 395-6163, email caltechy@caltech.edu or in person at the Caltech Y (505 South Wilson – next to the Caltech Credit Union). The goal of the Washington DC Science Policy Trip is to advance political understanding and promote engaged, responsible citizenship. You can read more about one of our past trips here . Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Updated Eaton Fire Response Donate to the Y Fire Fund To Participate: https://www.every.org/caltech-y?method=bank%2Cpaypal%2Cvenmo%2Cpay%2Cgift%2Ccrypto%2Cstocks%2Cdaf&utm_campaign=donate-link#/donate/bank About Introducing the Caltech Y Fire Fund: Thank you to the support of our community we have already raised over $2,500 to support Caltech Y Student-Led Fire Relief Projects . Check out this Pasadena Now article about Y fire efforts here . Donate to the Fire Fund *Indicate Y Fire Fund in the notes section Volunteer Opportunities and Support the Y's Fire Relief Efforts: ✨ ROWW has some gaps in coverage and really needs more volunteers for the multiple days of furniture pickups for those affected by the Eaton Fire. ROWW VOLUNTEER SIGN UPS ✨ Carrows Distribution Center volunteering: sign up at this link ✨ The Caltech Y is a proud partner of the Eaton Fire Collaborative: A United Effort for Recovery & Rebuilding - eatonfirecollaborative.org In response to the recent devastation impacting Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre , the Eaton Fire Collaborative has come together to support the rebuilding and recovery of our community. This unified effort brings together community groups, local nonprofits, city, county, and state officials dedicated to helping those affected. This group has been meeting weekly since January 14th behind the scenes to create this unified group. Our mission is to provide a coordinated response and clear communication to ensure that resources, assistance, and information reach the people and organizations that need them most. Our Shared Goal: We are committed to ensuring that those most impacted by the Eaton Fire are at the forefront of this conversation, leading our collaborative efforts to align our response with the community’s real needs. Stay tuned for more updates and visit eatonfirecollaborative.org to get involved! #Altadena #EatonFireRecovery #DenaStrong #RebuildTogether A message from the Executive Director: Dear Caltech Y Friends, The devastating fires in the Los Angeles area have affected countless lives. We are fortunate that our staff remains safe, although some are still displaced. We are heartbroken for the many community members who have suffered significant losses, including losing their homes. If this is you, please know that our hearts go out to you during this unimaginably difficult time. As we navigate the road to recovery together, we are working to assist local partner organizations with volunteer and donation needs, compile resources to keep the Caltech student community aware of ways to help, as well as reaching out to families in the Rise tutoring program to assist where we can. Our community is forever changed by these events, but the outpouring of support gives us strength and hope. The Caltech Y is committed to both immediate and long-term recovery efforts, and we will remain in close contact with community organizations to provide ongoing support in the months ahead. If you are looking for ways to help, here are a few resources: Caltech Y has established a Fire Relief Fund to support student-led fire recovery projects The Harris-Bacor Family Foundation, a long-time supporter of the Rise Program, has launched the Eaton Wildfire Relief Fund to assist families in immediate need. We are continuing to identify other organizations accepting donations and coordinating relief efforts. With love and solidarity, Athena Castro On behalf of the Caltech Y Board, students, and staff Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Y-Hike Yosemite Trip $300 Wed. | Sept. 17 - Sat. | Sept. 20, 2025 To Participate: Step 1: Sign up for a Caltech Y account at https://go.caltechy.org Step 2: Sign up for the Y-Hike at https://go.caltechy.org/event/711 About The Y-Hike Pre-Orientation Trip is a great way to begin your Caltech Adventure! On the Y-Hike, organized and led by current Caltech students, you will camp, and hike in one of the most spectacular places in the world – Yosemite National Park. Whether climbing the mist trail to Vernal and Nevada falls; taking in the expansive views from Glacier Point or Upper Yosemite Falls; admiring the reflection of Half Dome in the Merced River; or marveling at the size of a giant sequoia or the face of El Capitan - Yosemite never seems to disappoint. And, while hiking in Yosemite can be challenging, there are many options, and our groups typically have a range of experience levels - so everyone from the novice to the seasoned outdoor enthusiast is welcome to join in on the Y-Hike. The Y-Hike is a great way to meet other students. Please complete the registration form to sign up. Remember, spaces are limited and applicants are accepted on a first come first served basis, so sign up early. You should get an on-screen indication that we have received your form once you have submitted it. We will send you a confirmation email indicating your status as a trip participant by mid August with additional information you will need to prepare for the trip and instructions for making payments. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Caltech Y: caltechy@caltech.edu or (626) 395-6163. DATES TO REMEMBER : Friday, July 31st is the deadline for incoming students to sign-up for the Y-Hike, but spaces are limited and applicants are accepted on a first come first serve basis… so make sure to sign-up early. Priority will be given to new students. You will receive a confirmation via email. Thursday, September 11th - there will be a brief Orientation on Zoom to help you prepare for the trip. We will introduce trip leaders, review important reminders, and review the itinerary and what to expect in Yosemite. More details to come. Tuesday, September 16th - If we are backpacking (those interested will be notified) there will be an early packing session for Backpackers who are local (in the Caltech area) only - time to be announced - so we can get on the road quicker on Wednesday. Backpackers who aren't local will be asked to arrive early Wednesday morning at 7:00AM if possible to pack. Campers can disregard the early packing requirements. Wednesday, September 17th , 9:00AM is our meet time - at the Caltech Y (#128 [Section A4] on the Map) – 505 S. Wilson Avenue - to depart for Yosemite. Please plan to arrive packed and ready to go. It will take us some time to pull gear you have requested and load vehicles and we will want to be on the road as soon as we can. Note: Meals while camping will be provided, but we will make fast food stops while traveling to and from Yosemite, and there are places where you can purchase snacks if you want them in Yosemite, so you should be prepared to cover what you want/need. Saturday, September 20th - We are planning to return late Saturday evening (with a stop for dinner – again, your responsibility) – and we have made arrangements for incoming undergrads to check-in early (grad students should already be checked-in but returning undergraduate students will need to make their own arrangements until their scheduled check -in day). Sunday, September 21st - We invite everyone to walk back over to the Caltech Y to join us for breakfast at the Caltech Y to celebrate the official end our trip before Orientation activities begin. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What if I can't afford to pay the $300 fee? While this trip is already subsidized, we understand that some students may face exceptional financial barriers that could prevent participation. In the application there is a place where you can indicate a desire to pay in installments or even apply for a scholarship to cover more of the cost. When should I arrive on campus? It is essential that arrive on time so we can load and get on the road. If you think arriving on time could prove difficult, you might want to think about spending the night before in the area. It is unlikely that we will be able to wait for late arrivals. If you have not checked-in to housing, you can request space - in advance - at the Caltech Y for storing the items you won't need while on the trip. How difficult will the treks be? We will be hiking a wide variety of trails, and availing ourselves of a range of park amenities but groups will typically form according to preferred difficulty with leaders available at each level. Hiking in the high sierras is not a walk in the park, but routes will be selected to provide more moderate and more difficult treks based on the sign ups. Easier routes will likely still present some challenge while those selecting strenuous will be reminded that our focus is on getting to know one another while appreciating an amazing setting… not just checking off peaks. Informal groups may also form for those interested in more mellow hikes and activities around the valley. Who are the Y-Hike leaders? Most of our leaders are current Caltech students who have participated on the Y-Hike, or one of our other outdoor adventures, at one point themselves… however from time to time we also have alumni, staff, and/or other students who have some experience as well. Our leaders are not professional guides, but have outdoor experience. The Y-Hike, like other Y programs, is student-led. What equipment will I need? The Y will have all the group equipment (tents, stoves, etc.) you need and can also provide you with a sleeping bag and sleeping pad if you don’t have your own. See the packing list for a complete list of recommendations for personal attire and gear. Packing and Equipment List Here What is the Caltech Y anyway? The Caltech Y is an independent, student-driven, non-profit organization affiliated with Caltech. We were founded in 1916 as a student club, affiliated with the YMCA, to provide programs planned by, and for, students… and to promote leadership development and self-discovery. While the Caltech Y has added a staff and Board of Directors, the spirit of our founding remains – student-led opportunities that enrich student life and challenge students to be engaged citizens of the world. Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Make-A-Difference Day $0 Coming this Spring! To Participate: About Make-A-Difference Day, is our largest day of service, happening every Spring term. Join students and others around campus and volunteer for one day of service in the local Pasadena / Los Angeles area. Learn something new about our community and some of the agencies doing good work there - all while making a positive impact. Whether you prefer the outdoors or indoors, people or animals—there is a project for everyone! Projects are led by students and range from 3.5 to 6 hours (including travel) depending on the project. Meals, transportation, Caltech Y t-shirts and Make-A-Difference Day hats are provided. The UG House with the most volunteers can also claim $150 toward Ditch Day or other House events thanks to ASCIT. Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs India Ki Khoj Cultural Trip $1,500 December 13 - 22 | Applications Due: July 29 To Participate: https://forms.gle/XzD3MRuPesdmAsTB9 About The Caltech Y, in partnership with the Caltech SURF Program and IIT Gandhinagar (IITGN), is coordinating a trip to Gandhinagar, India. This trip is designed to introduce Caltech students to the many layers that form identity in India. Through a combination of academic lectures and fieldtrips, IITGN faculty will take participants through the India of the past, present and future, relating India’s ancient traditions of philosophy, science and technology to a present-day India. The trip will take place in Gandhinagar, located on the west coast of India, a region chosen by Gandhi as the center of his political campaigns and social experiments. Nearby, Ahmedabad also has a long-standing tradition of business and entrepreneurship as well as striking architecture. It is a historic city steeped in tradition that is also responding rapidly to modernity and globalization. ITINERARY December 13 Leave Caltech December 15 Arrive in India December 16-21 Workshops, Discussions, Fieldtrips December 22 Leave India December 22 Arrive in US PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Talks and discussions will be led by IITGN faculty and other guest speakers. Topics include: History Religions in India Democracy Caste and community structures Science and technology (both ancient and modern) Science policy Indian philosophical traditions India as an economic market Gender issues Poetry and films Thanks to our partners, IITGN and the SURF Program, this trip is heavily subsidized. The $1500 student fee includes transportation, lodging and meals while in-country, visa processing fees and travel insurance. Immunizations are required, but not covered in the fee. Knowing that some students may face exceptional financial barriers that could prevent their participation, participants are given the option to break up their fee over time, and/or to apply for the Global Perspectives Scholarship in order to receive additional subsidy, if needed. Because this trip is scheduled at the beginning of winter break participants may choose to travel independently to a different destination when the program ends or to return with the group to Caltech. The trip is open to all undergraduate students. For questions, please contact caltechy@caltech.edu . Space is limited. Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Toy Drive & Gift-Wrapping Night Donation Drive: November 18 – December 9 Gift Wrapping Event – Tuesday, December 9th at 7PM To Participate: Drop off donations at the Caltech Y or Caltech Bookstore. RSVP for the Gift Wrapping Night at https://go.caltechy.org/event/773 About Toy Drive & Gift-Wrapping Event — Bringing Holiday Joy to Foster Youth Donation Drive: Tuesday, November 18 – Tuesday, December 9 Gift Wrapping Event – Tuesday, December 9 th at 7PM in Hameetman Student Conference Room The Caltech Y is proud to partner with the Red Cross, Five Acres, and PCC Stars to make the holidays brighter for youth in foster care — and we’d love your help! There are several ways to get involved: Donate a new, unwrapped gift by December 9. Requested items include: wireless earbuds, gift cards, beauty products, teen clothing, and more. You can also browse the Amazon wish list here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/4DJC8XHXHGMU?ref_=wl_share Drop-off Locations (9 AM – 5 PM): Caltech Y (505 S. Wilson Ave) or the Caltech Bookstore Volunteer at our Gift-Wrapping Night Tuesday, December 9th at 7:00 PM Help wrap donated gifts and enjoy a festive evening together. RSVP at: https://go.caltechy.org/event/773 Volunteer at the PCC Stars Holiday Party Date: December 11th Celebrate the season by supporting a winter holiday event. Every contribution — big or small — helps spread holiday cheer to youth who deserve to feel seen and supported this season. For questions, email caltechy@caltech.edu . Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs World Fest: International Food Fair and Culture Show $5 if you want to eat Coming this Spring! To Participate: About For just $5 enjoy a taste of the world! Foods representing over 20 different countries and regions provided by Caltech student clubs, staff and community volunteers will be on hand for you to sample and enjoy. And while you eat you can also partake in performances and talents of other in the international community as well. Come learn about and appreciate some of the amazing international diversity present here at Caltech. In an effort to reduce waste, guests are encouraged to bring reusable plates and water bottles but paper products will be available for those who need. Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Mount Hillyer Day Hike Free * Sunday | Dec. 7 | 7:30 AM To Participate: https://go.caltechy.org/event/821 About Join The Caltech Y Outdoors this Sunday, December 7th, for a hike up to Mount Hillyer via Silver Moccasin Trail and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. On the 6.2 mile loop you will climb 1,240 feet of elevation gain over an estimated 3 to 3.5 hours time and enjoy both the serenity of the forest and the beauty of the mountains. Whether you're looking to explore the quiet woods or take in the views from the top this hike has much to offer. The trip is free, but you must have your own transportation to, and from, the trailhead or carpool with others and those carpooling should anticipate chipping in about $10 for gas (a group spreadsheet will be sent out for those who want to self-organize carpooling). Look for a confirmation email with more details and logistics. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served. Feel free to email Kyle ( khunady@caltech.edu ) if you have questions. Sign-up is required. Previous Program Next Program

United way campaign Caltech staff or faculty*? Double your impact to support the Caltech Y's outreach programs! November 3rd to December 2nd 2025 Through Caltech's United Way campaign, you can double your impact through a 100% match by the Institute to support Rise, Union Station Homeless Center meals, Math Power Hour, Young Legends, Anawakalmekak tutoring, and LEAP. All these programs are planned and executed by student leaders, your support allows over 100 volunteers to give back to the community. Donate *Retired Caltech staff and faculty can also give through the campaign, follow the one-time gift instructions at the link above The Direct impact of your support "[Rise] helped me become a better mentor, see different learning styles, test different teaching strategies, and so much more. I’ve had a lot of people help me get to where I am today, and it feels good to pay it forward. Watching my students become confident and successful has truly been one of the highlights of my Caltech experience.” -Rise Tutor “When I was struggling in middle school, I never thought math and science would become my favorite subjects. Rise completely changed that for me. I made new friends, gained confidence, and started dreaming about what I could do next.” -Rise Tutee learn MORE ABOUT THE rISE PROGRAM RISE ANNUAL REPORT

< Back to all programs Hastrup Award $0 UG or G | up to $5,000 Solo or $6,000 Pairs | Apps Open in Fall 2026 | Explore your family roots or other cultures To Participate: https://forms.gle/grtPaLWtmREucTwf9 About The Gunilla Hastrup Adventure Award was created by family and friends of Gunilla Hastrup (a Caltech Y Board Member who not only loved sharing Swedish traditions, but also enjoyed travel, exploring, and learning about others) to provide students the opportunity to explore their family roots or family origins to gain a better understanding of their cultural identity, and/or explore and learn about a culture different from their own. This could be another country or a different part of the United States. Who is Eligible Applicants must be current Caltech Undergraduate or Graduate students in good academic standing. Graduating students are also eligible for the award. Joint applications with another student or a spouse / significant other are also allowed, but both must complete the application separately. Applicants choosing an international destination must be 18 years or older. There is no age restriction for domestic destinations; however, a parent/guardian will be expected to sign a waiver. Proposal Guidelines If you are an interested Caltech undergraduate or graduate student who is in good academic standing, you should submit the itemized budget form with anticipated expenses and an application that provides: The requested demographic information. A concise written narrative describing how you intend to use the award and how these plans fulfill the spirit and purpose of the award. Please also include what you hope to gain from the experience. Added details, if travel is proposed. Acknowledgment of the agreements that recipients will be expected to sign Application and Selection Process: A selection committee consisting of Caltech Y Board Members, students, faculty, and/or staff will review proposals, identify and interview finalists, select the recipients, and determine award amounts based on need, and funding available. Partial funding may also be offered. Criteria include the following: Does the applicant clearly demonstrate how their plans will fulfill the spirit and purpose of the award? Does it seem like the experience will provide a good opportunity to learn about, or engage in, what was proposed by the applicant? Is the proposed budget reasonable? Does the applicant distinguish herself or himself as someone who will engage in the cause or learn to be a new or important voice for the issue addressed? Awardee(s) cannot hold multiple travel awards (e.g. Bishop, San Pietro, ACT, etc). SURF students are not permitted to have other commitments during SURF, including evenings or weekends, however, activities before or after the SURF period are eligible. The proposed project can also be an extension of the SURF, but it must be distinct and not overlap in time with the SURF. What Awardees Receive Awardees may request up to $5,000 individually or $6,000 in pairs for funding to cover expenses for their proposed experience, including transportation (flights, trains, shuttles, taxis, tolls, travel insurance, visas, required vaccinations, etc.); lodgings (hotels, hotels, rental properties, etc.); relevant excursions (museums, monuments, venues relevant to the proposal); and program costs (registration and program fees for classes, tours, mentor organizations, etc.). The selection committee will determine award amounts (may be full or partial funding) based on need and funding available. Awards may have tax and financial aid implications. Students are advised to consult with a tax advisor and/or the financial aid office with any questions. What is required of Recipients Meet with Y staff to review and sign an agreement outlining expectations and deadlines in order to accept the award. Complete the proposed experience as outlined and approved by September 12th. Please note: Any changes to the proposed experience must be pre-approved. Submit a spending summary, including receipts, with each request for reimbursement. Submit a report sharing details on what was done, learned/gained from the experience, along with pictures, that can be shared with donors, and used for reports and promotional materials. Reports can be made in a mutually agreed upon format (for example, but not limited to - a written document, video presentation, blog post, interview, article for the Tech or the Caltech Y Newsletter, etc.) The deadline for submitting the trip report and spending summary/receipts is September 15th. Recipients may also be asked to give an optional presentation summarizing the experience to members of the Y Staff, Board of Directors, and/or donors, as well as interested students as available. Questions? The Caltech Y is here to help! Applicants with questions about the award or application process are encouraged seek input via phone 626-395-6163, email caltechy@caltech.edu , or in-person at the Caltech Y. Some of the past recipients: 2025 Sam Solomon examined the Jewish Diaspora in Aruba 2025 Juni Polansky explored her biracial roots in South Korea 2025 Matthew Casertano traced his Jewish heritage and resilience in Poland and Lithuania 2025 Sydney Vernon explored her heritage through environment in Norway and Sweden 2025 Spencer Delgado reconnected with his family tree in Poland 2023 Raj Tarafder investigated the stories of indentured Indian servants and their descendants in South Africa 2023 Gabby Dituri reconnected with her family and roots in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. 2023 Mathew Hajjar explored his Lebanese culture in Turkey 2023 Newton Nguyen and Erica McCormick connected with family in Vietnam and Cambodia 2023 Andrew Lu and Victoria Tobin explored Andrew’s father’s roots in Taiwan 2023 Gabbi Twombly and Hope Arnett explored their disconnected roots in Ireland and Scotland 2022 Jeff and Miranda Kerkovius explored a new culture in Seoul, South Korea. 2022 Fatemeh Aghlmand honored her father by traveling to Turkey with ties to where he was from. 2022 Jordan Benjamin connected with family roots and distant family members in St. Croix, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. The Caltech Y reserves the right to revoke the award at any point due to safety and security concerns or changes in recipient eligibility or proposal. To apply you must submit both the application and a budget. Previous Program Next Program

Treasurer < Back Michael Noll Treasurer Mike was the Caltech Y’s outside financial accountant for over 20 years. After having sold his CPA practice and investment advisory firm, Mike is now a Licensed Private Professional Fiduciary. Mike has served in various capacities with the Rotary Club of Altadena, including Treasurer, Assistant Governor, and Club President. He is also the past-President and Treasurer of Convalescent Aid Society and High Point Academy. Committee Affiliation: Executive Committee, Finance Committee Previous Next

< Back Kevin Gilmartin Kevin Gilmartin studies social and political developments in British literature and print culture during the Age of Revolution, an era of social and political upheaval in Europe and the Americas from the late eighteenth century through the first half of the nineteenth century. Looking beyond literary texts, his research considers newspapers, periodicals, pamphlets, and other print forms to produce a more nuanced and finely grained account of the politics of literary culture. Committee Affiliation: Previous Next