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2017 WEST - Integrating transfer students into the UCSC STEM community

2017 Workshops for Engineering & Science Transfers

WEST 2017 workshops will be held on the UCSC campus (possible field trips TBD) on Monday Sept 18th, Tuesday Sept 19th and Wednesday Sept 20th 2017.

The overall daily schedule varies depending on each WEST Strand, but participants are involved in a full set (~7-8 hrs) of activities each day. 

Participants are offered a spot in one of four subject strands, depending on their major, research interests and space availability.

The 2017 WEST Strands:

Astrophysics WEST

Spectroscopy is a powerful tool used in astrophysics research which relies on several fundamental physics concepts. Participants will work with spectra of astronomical sources taken by world-class UCSC astrophysicists. They will craft authentic models to explain the data and the physics of the object. Background in introductory physics suggested, though not required.

CompSci WEST

This workshop offers exposure to concepts used in machine learning (getting computers to learn from data and make some predictions). Students will use computational tools to learn how to create algorithms and build predictive models through data analysis. Some programming experience suggested, but not required.

Chemistry WEST

Colors, medicine, protein structure and function, and the mechanisms of life are so commonly observed and appreciated, yet these properties all arise from invisible quantum mechanical interactions between “bonding” atoms. Various models of bonding have been developed in organic chemistry to allow scientists to grasp a complex quantum reality and apply solutions relevant to life and human health. Starting with a simple model of an atomic orbital, we will build up a complex model of bonding that explains observations in nature and modern chemical research.

Ecology WEST

Santa Cruz is nestled in the middle of some of the most iconic marine and terrestrial ecosystems on the planet. These ecosystems teem with life, from microscopic plankton, to coastal redwoods that live for thousands of years, and the blue whale, the largest animal ever to have roamed the earth. In this activity, participants will learn how to construct and use ecosystem models to explore how energy flows in two local ecosystems. Participants with a background in introductory ecology are encouraged to apply, though prior experience is not required.

Learn more about the different Activities each Strand will offer by coming to the Transfer Orientation & Resource Fair: Friday July 28th, 11:30am-2pm, Rachel Carson Plaza. Come say hi at the ISEE - WEST Booth!

Applying to WEST

  • All incoming transfer students interested in science & engineering may apply to WEST. All Accepted Applicants will receive a waiver of registration and program fees to attend.

  • Students accepted into WEST who have a Fall UCSC housing contract are elligible for the Early Arrival Program. This allows participants early move-in into their residence hall prior to the scheduled transfer move-in day. The 2017 Early-Move-In date is Monday Sept 18th (there is an opening dinner for WEST at 5pm that evening). Students are responsible for all early move-in expenses (2017 rate is $154.50). This fee includes $28.50/day in flexi-dollars credited to a meal card used during the academic year.

  • WEST also accepts students who live off-campus, though lodging and transportation needs are independent of the program and up to each individual student to arrange.

Important dates:

  • Application Deadline -  Monday, August 7th, 2017 

  • Applicants notified of acceptance into WEST -  Friday, August 18, 2017

  • Program acceptance requires returning a signed Confirmation of Attendance form by - Friday, August 25, 2017 in order to be officially enrolled. Further program details provided after all confirmations are received.