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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. GET INVOLVED COMMUNITY SERVICE STUDENT COMMITTEES PROGRAM LIST RISE FRIENDS Anchor 2 Anchor 1 Upcoming Mt Pinos / Sawmill Mtn Day Hike Saturday | July 19th | 8:00 am - 5:00 PM Los Padres National Forest Read More India Ki Khoj Cultural Trip December 13 - 22 | Gandhinagar, India $1,500 | Applications Due: July 29 Read More Union Station Homeless Dinner Service Fri. | Monthly | 5 - 9 pm 412 Raymond Ave. Pasadena 91104 Read More Union Station Birthday Club & Dinner Monthly | 4:45 to 9:00 PM | 825 E Orange Grove Blvd, Pasadena | Spaces Limited | Dinner Provided Read More Camp Rise July 7th - July 25th | Caltech Campus | Flexible commitment: From one hour to multiple days Read More Youth of Promise Tuesday | July 1st | July 15th | July 29th | Flintridge Center | Assistance with transportation available Read More Updated Eaton Fire Response Ongoing resources and updates Read More Pasadena LEARNs - Monthly Science Demos Once a month | Friday | 3:00-5:00 PM Read More Rise Tutoring Monday-Thursday | 4:30-6PM | 1 day/week commitment at Caltech, Online, or John Muir High School Read More Young Legends Tutoring Flexible Schedule | 1 hour/week or 2 hours/every other week Read More Hastrup Award UG or G | up to $5,000 Solo or $6,000 Pairs | Explore your family background or another culture | Applications Open in the Fall Read More Hummel Gray Award UG or G | up to $1,000 National, $2,000 International | Go to conferences, present, gain leadership | Applications Open in the Fall Read More Load More

< 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

For over 100 years the Caltech Y has been an invaluable resource for Caltech students. We offer a wide breadth programs for students of all backgrounds and interests to become responsible citizens of the world. the caltech y Making a world of difference since 1916 Supporting our community during the fires Click here to read a message from the Caltech Y, we will be updating this page with fire resources and volunteer opportunities. Joining our community partners for long-term recovery efforts. Fire Response For over 100 years the Caltech Y has been an invaluable resource for Caltech students. We are uniquely positioned to offer an incredible breadth programs for students of all backgrounds and interests to become responsible citizens of the world. From hikes in our beautiful national parks, service trips around the world, monthly Union Station dinners, to daily tutoring of local K-12 students, there is something for everyone at the Y. None of these programs would be possible without our dedicated student leaders, staff, board members, individual donors, and corporate partners. Thank you for visiting our site. Athena castro, Executive director GET INVOLVED upcoming events & announcements Mt Pinos / Sawmill Mtn Day Hike Saturday | July 19th | 8:00 am - 5:00 PM Los Padres National Forest Read More India Ki Khoj Cultural Trip December 13 - 22 | Gandhinagar, India $1,500 | Applications Due: July 29 Read More Union Station Homeless Dinner Service Fri. | Monthly | 5 - 9 pm 412 Raymond Ave. Pasadena 91104 Read More ALL UPCOMING PROGRAMS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Noteworthy News Congratulations to all the students who received year-end awards! SPHEREx Mission Takes Center Stage at Caltech Y Friends Dinner, Raising Over $2,500 for Fire Recovery Efforts Double Your Impact: Creating a Global Perspective Kicking off the Trip Ticket: Global Perspectives Campaign! Caltech Y Food Truck Open House Showcases Student Programs All News Thank you to our foundation & corporate sponsors

Rentals & Sales About 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. Rentals are only available to Caltech and JPL community members (students, faculty, staff, alumni). 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! RESERVATIONS What We Offer room rentals The Caltech Y has one room available for reservation for meetings or small programs. This room has access to a restroom. Please note there may be limited availability for these rooms. 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. Room Reservation Guidelines Click Here - Pickup and Drop-Off hours are exclusively from 10am to 4pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. - Reservation requests can be made at any time online; however, gear can only be picked up or returned on our designated rental days which are Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays. - On which days can I rent equipment? - What are the pickup and drop-off hours? - You will receive an email the day before or on the same day when your rental starts with information on how to pick up your reserved items. On your pickup day, you may pick up reserved items from 10am to 4pm from the numbered bins on the porch outside the Caltech Y or by following special instructions. Bin number and/or special instructions will be included in the pickup email. - How will I receive information about my rental pickup? - All tents MUST be set up and taken down by the renter after staff inspection upon return. An additional $20 fee per tent will be assessed if you are unable to set up or take down your tent at the time of return. If you are renting multiple tents or a 6-person tent, you MUST bring extra people with you to help set up. This process ensures that the person who rents the tent(s) after you has all the pieces and the tent is in good working order. - Are there any specific instructions for returning tents? - You should make your reservation as early as possible to ensure availability. Online reservation requests can be made as early as 90 days in advance of your planned return date: however, no later than 5pm of the business day before your desired rental pickup day. - You must cancel your reservation no later than 5pm on the business day before your scheduled rental pickup for a full refund. Failure to do so will result in a 1-day charge for each canceled item or items not picked up, with the remaining balance eligible for a refund. - What is the cancellation policy? - How early should/can I make a reservation? - You will be charged to replace lost or damaged equipment. In general, charges are based on how long we have had the specific equipment. - 1st Year = full replacement cost - 2nd Year = 80% replacement cost - 3rd Year = 60% replacement cost - 4+ Years = 40% replacement cost - We are closed on weekends and holidays and cannot rent or accept equipment for returns during those times. You will be charged for the full rental period (even if you use the gear for only one day/night) and will return the gear on our next open day. - I only need to rent for one day. Why can’t I return gear on other days besides Mon/Wed/Fri? What is the rental fee policy? - I broke or lost equipment. Will I be charged? FAQ

< Back to all programs ACT Award $0 Applications Open in the Fall To Participate: About The Caltech Y Advocating Change Together (ACT) Award provides motivated Caltech students with an opportunity to learn about themselves and their place in society, and to act to make-a-difference in the world through community engagement, activism and leadership. The goals of the Caltech Y ACT Award are to increase awareness and promote civic engagement: encouraging students to explore an issue or cause of local, national, or global significance, and empowering students to get educated and engaged in the cause through learning or volunteer experiences (learning from, or volunteering with, experienced mentors or organizations). The ACT Award offers an opportunity to explore a cause and to make a difference. Applications Open in the Fall Who is Eligible Applicants must be enrolled Caltech Undergraduate or Graduate students in good academic standing. Solo applicants and co-applicants (joint applications) are both welcome. Both must do an application. 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 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 proposal explaining: the cause that you would like to explore/address, and why it warrants attention: the educational experience and mentor or organization that would help you learn more about, or engage in, the cause you have identified - and why you believe it would make a valuable learning experience: what you personally hope to gain from the experience, etc. 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: o Does the applicant clearly demonstrate a personal commitment and interest in the issue/cause? o Does it seem like the experience will provide a good opportunity to learn about, or engage in, what was proposed by the applicant? o Is the proposed budget reasonable? o 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. Selection of a Cause The applicant should pursue a cause or issue of interest or importance - and be able to explain why it warrants attention, and how the experience being proposed will help them learn about the issue and/or engage in the cause. Proposed activites cannot: Support proselytizing activities exclusively to promote a religious faith. Support a political campaign to elect a candidate into office. Support an organization or an effort that inspires/promotes hate (as determined by Y staff). For example, a proposal to volunteer with a faith-based organization to eliminate capital punishment would be acceptable whereas an application to convert death row inmates to a specific faith would not be. Please consult the Caltech Y staff for further clarification. What Awardees Receive Applicants may request up to $4,500 to cover expenses 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 conferences, classes, mentor organizations, etc.) for the educational or engagement experience. 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 awardees Meet with Y staff to review and sign a contract outlining expectations and deadlines 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 provide 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. Help from the Caltech Y The Caltech Y is here to help! Applicants with questions about the award or application process are encouraged to seek input via email caltechy@caltech.edu , phone 626 395 6163 or in-person at the Caltech Y. Past Recipients 2023 Emily Zheng volunteered with Sacha Yacu Wild Animal Rescue Center in Ecuador. 2023 Rupa Kurinchi-Vendhan volunteered with Coral Gardeners, a non-profit research lab working on coral reef protection in Mo'orea. 2023 Tanvi Ganapathy explored disability in tech at the Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference in Dallas. 2020 Jennifer Yu (UG) worked with KEEN (Kids Enjoying Exercise Now) on community based programs to engage children with special needs in exercise in San Francisco. 2020 Pei Wei Chen (G) - tackled unequal access to educational resources by collecting science equipment for donation to a school in need in Bakersfield. 2020 Jose Lasalde Ramirez (G) wanted to increase representation in STEM fields by taking HS students to the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos / Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) Conference in Puerto Rico. 2019 Anna Helena de Oliveira Lobo (G) tackled STEM under representation for girls by volunteering with, the Parana Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology (IFPR) – Brazil. 2019 Damien Berube (UG) explored science communication and nuclear policy as a part of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Introductory Course on Nuclear Nonproliferation and Safeguards and the Hazardous Materials Management and Emergency Response Federal Training Center in Washington State. 2019 Sarah Sam (G) addressed the marginalization of groups within STEM education taking HS students to the Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS) in Anaheim. 2018 Stephanie Kong (G) attended the Global Climate Change and Global Climate Action Summit in New York City and San Francisco. 2017 Jinglin Huang (G) and Yu Su (G) examined affordable/sustainable housing by researching 2 different communities in China. 2016 Phillip Anh (UG) volunteered with Volunteer Partnerships for West Africa (VPWA) in microfinance in Ghana and Kenya. 2016 Katherine Guo (UG) worked on availability of clean drinking water by volunteering with Engineers Without Boarders and their partner the Namsaling Community Development Center (NCDC) in Nepal. 2015 Amanda Shing (G) attended a sustainable living training through the Growing Club, the LA Ecovillage, Urban Homestead, CA Recycle, and the Center for Sustainable Energy in Los Angeles. 2014 Ryeen Islam (UG) volunteered with Touching Souls International on blindness in the developing world in Bangladesh. 2013 Janani Mandayam Comar (UG) volunteered to help prevent human trafficking and exploitation with Children’s Organization of Southeast Asia in Thailand. 2012 Amol Kamat (UG) volunteered with the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti focused on limb replacement and amputee support in India. 2008 Joey Koehler (UG) tackled mobility and economic sustainability for the disabled in the developing world volunteering with Intelligent Mobility International in Guatemala. 2008 Alice Robie (G) attended training in the Common Ground Master Gardener Program in Los Angeles to learn about providing access to affordable, nutritious food to low-income and limited-resource residents. 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

< Back to all programs Mt Pinos / Sawmill Mtn Day Hike Free * Saturday | July 19th | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm To Participate: https://forms.gle/KrMz1AVuFo1FMRCPA About Join us on a hike lead by Caltech Y Outdoors leaders to the peaks of Mt. Pinos and Sawmill mountain ! This is a difficult 7 mile hike at over 8000 ft elevation, but it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, farmlands to the east, and the tall pines of the Los Padres national forest. We will depart from Caltech at 8am and return around 5pm. Departing early, plus the elevation and partial tree cover, will help us the beat the summer heat! Be prepared to bring your own snacks and a light lunch, sturdy footwear, at least 3L of water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. You must have your own transportation to, and from, the trailhead or carpool with others. We will send out group contacts to help participants self-organize carpools. The trip is free of charge but please be prepared to chip in $20 for gas and vehicle wear and tear. Look for a confirmation email with more details and logistics. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served. Feel free to email Rithvik ( rramesh@caltech.edu ), or Omid ( omidgolami@caltech.edu ) if you have questions. Sign-up is required to participate. Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Studenski Award $0 Applications Open in the Fall To Participate: About The Studenski Memorial Award is a grant of up to $6000 established in the memory of Paul Studenski, a Caltech student who was killed in an automobile accident while traveling across the United States in 1974. It is awarded to a Caltech undergraduate who having reached a crossroads in life and would benefit from a period away from the academic community to gain a better understanding of self and explore possible directions for the future. Applications Open in the Fall Who is Eligible Applicants must be enrolled Caltech Undergraduate students in good academic standing 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 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 the "crossroad" in which you find yourself, what you are proposing to do, and how what you are proposing will help you find clarity. Consider the following questions: What are the choices you face? How will this opportunity help you better understand yourself and your future plans? 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: o Does it seem like the experience will provide a good opportunity to find the clarity sought? o Is the proposed budget reasonable? 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 $6,000 to cover expenses for the educational 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 conferences, classes, mentor organizations, etc.). 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. 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 52 Recipients: 2023 Ekta Patel volunteered with the India Medical and Electives Program in India. 2023 Katelyn Lee experienced sustainable farming and culture in Japan and South Korea. 2023 Shalini Kurinchi-Vendhan explored being a writer in literary England. 2022 Aanica Gonzalez Rogers studied sewing and fashion in New York City. 2022 Jennah Colborn studied scientific illustration with a Marine Conservation organization. 2022 Camila Buitrago volunteered with conservation organizations in the Amazon. 2019 Jake Mattinson studied narrative-based scientific communication with Jet Propulsion Theatre in Italy. 2019 Anise Rau studied Dance and Theatre in New York City. 2018 Amanda Lin studied cooking in Japan. 2017 Jessica Cheng studied ceramics in New York City. 2016 Dan Ilyin studied improv with the renowned Second City Improv in Chicago. 2016 Mara Green volunteered with One Circle through the LA County Sherriff. 2015 Alice Michel was a wildlife conservation volunteer with Operation Wallacea in South Africa. 2014 Margaux Lopez helped prototype exhibits at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. 2013 Teo Wilkening traveled for service and leadership development with NextGen Academy. 2011 Laura Decker trained and competed in fencing. 2010 Katie Brennan volunteered in a nutrition program in Malawi. 2009 Sara Hunt studied majority world technologies in Guatemala. 2008 Erin Flanigan volunteered on a traveling medical team in Tanzania. 2007 Elena Hartoonian studied the art of Flamenco dancing in Spain. 2006 Herschel Mukherjee studied environmental policy in Tunisia. 2005 Felicia Katz volunteered in a rural medical clinic in Nicaragua. 2004 Libin Zhang volunteered with a sea turtles project in Suriname. 2003 Iram Bilal studied filmmaking in England. 2002 Katie Homann volunteered in a rural medical clinic in Guatemala. Note: The Studenski Award is not a paid vacation, a chance to get in touch with your roots, an opportunity to pad your resume, or a way to choose between two scientific career paths. It is also not a community service grant although doing service can be proposed if it helps you address the crossroad you face. The Studenski Award is intended to help the recipient find clarity of purpose. 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

< 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 Union Station Homeless Dinner Service $0 Fri. | July 11 | 5 - 9 pm 412 Raymond Ave. Pasadena 91104 To Participate: https://go.caltechy.org/events About Join us as we prepare and serve dinner to residents of Pasadena's Union Station Adult Center. Food and materials are provided. The Adult Center provides shelter, meals, and supportive services to more than 150 homeless men and women each year. Space is limited. Previous Program Next Program

< Back to all programs Union Station Birthday Club & Dinner $0 Tue. | July 15 | 445 - 9 pm 825 E. Orange Grove Blvd. Pasadena 91104 To Participate: https://go.caltechy.org/events About Monthly, 4:45-8:45PM Union Station Family Center, 825 E Orange Grove Blvd, Pasadena Join us as we cook dinner and celebrate the birthdays of the residents at the Union Station Family Center. Volunteers will help prepare dinner, serve birthday treats, and lead an interactive activity during dinner time. The Family Center provides a nurturing, home-like environment for approximately 200 homeless children and parents each year. To RSVP, email ljackman@caltech.edu . Previous Program Next Program

Who We Are What We Do Upcoming Events Calendar Weekly Announcements Media Become a Friend Contact More CONNECT WITH US TODAY (626) 395-6163 Tyson House 505 S. Wilson Ave. Pasadena, CA 91106 MC: C1-128 Pasadena, CA 91125 caltechy@caltech.edu Send Thanks! Message sent. We'll be in touch shortly :)

< Back to all programs Youth of Promise $0 Tuesday | July 1st | July 15th | July 29th | Flintridge Center | 236 West Mountain Street, Suite 106, Pasadena, CA 91103 To Participate: Email caltechy@caltech.edu to volunteer About Youth of Promise is seeking volunteers for their summer program serving Pasadena & Altadena youth ages 11-14. Volunteers will lead the youth through science and/or math related projects. Projects will be hands on and interactive. Volunteers are welcome to suggest activities or assist with already planned lessons. YOP supports youth academically, socially, and emotionally. All youth receive one-on-one case management and participate in a curriculum of program activities that include academic support, mentorship, life skills, enrichment activities, caregiver engagement sessions and more. For more info about YOP services, visit their website at: https://www.flintridge.org/our-programs/youth-of-promise/ . Previous Program Next Program