COSMOS offers a distinct opportunity to develop skills for success in a college-like residential learning community. COSMOS at UCLA provides students with a pre-college residential life experience that introduces them to the University culture. To receive the program completion certification and be listed as COSMOS alumni, admitted students must live in the UCLA dorms. While residing at the UCLA student dorm, students are introduced to the resources, classrooms, and laboratories of the University of California. They also have access to university services, including libraries, computer labs, and recreational and cultural facilities. Living on campus allows COSMOS students to meet, work, and socialize with like-minded peers who share their enthusiasm for mathematics and science. Becoming active in the COSMOS learning community enables students to break their intellectual isolation and be challenged in a positive and nurturing environment. The residential program model at COSMOS cultivates a sense of common purpose and promotes supportive teamwork through small class sizes, integrative and collaborative learning, group projects, research presentations, and alumni programs.
WHAT TO BRING
It is essential that the students are prepared for their month-long stay at UCLA. We strive to provide an environment conducive to your success. Please refer to the list here, the current COSMOS Handbook for What to Bring, and many other important details about COSMOS. Please let us know if you have a question not addressed in the Student Handbook. The Handbook is revised every year. Please complete your participant forms, and we will send an email when available.
HOUSING
Students participating in the UCLA summer COSMOS program will be housed on the central UCLA campus, and students are required to live on campus for the duration of the program. Living on campus allows students ample opportunities to form lasting friendships with like-minded peers who share the same interests in mathematics and science.
MEALS
Residence hall food is served cafeteria-style three times a day with a wide selection of food, including fresh fruit, an array of salads, and several choices for entrees, daily soups, and a sandwich bar. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available at every meal. Reasonable accommodations may be made for other special dietary needs.
ACTIVITIES
Residential advisors (RAs) organize and help conduct activities in the residence halls. COSMOS offers a variety of fun activities, such as team sports (basketball, volleyball, soccer, and flag football), social events (dance lessons, karaoke, and movie nights), and special events. In addition, there will be weekend trips to local sites of interest.
STAFF & SAFETY
The COSMOS staff at UCLA includes program directors, professional live-in staff, and UCLA undergraduate Residential Assistants. Prior to the start of COSMOS, all staff goes through extensive training, and all teaching interns and residential staff are CPR/First Aid certified.
COSMOS policies are implemented to keep the students safe at all times. Please refer to the specific campus program for policies and procedures regarding safety.