Note: Information listed on this page applies to in-person program offerings only. For the 2023 program, information, rules, policies, and protocols may differ from what is listed below. Additional guidance and information will be provided to students closer to the program dates. 

Residential Life

COSMOS is designed as a residential program and as such aims to foster a community of students who share a balance of academic and social activities. All students must reside in the dorms for the duration of COSMOS. Participants will live in the UCI residence halls of Middle Earth, under the supervision of on site resident assistants (RAs).

Resident Assistants

Resident Assistants (RAs) live in the residence halls throughout the program. These UCI undergraduates have knowledge and experience in student residential life and campus resources. They have received specialized training in Conflict Management, Cultural Sensitivity, Team Building, and Sexual Harassment, and are certified in First Aid and CPR. They support our overall academic and social goals, and help to create a welcoming environment.

Roommates

All COSMOS students will be paired with a roommate based on the information provided on the Roommate Questionnaire, and by age group. Click here for guidelines for living together.

Overcoming Homesickness

Many students attending COSMOS will be away from home for the first time and experience a brief adjustment period. Everything will be new: the campus, the food, dorm life, and people to meet. It’s not unusual for students to feel homesick for the first few days. Typically, once students make friends and find their comfort level, they overcome it. Our trained residential staff support students who may be feeling homesick and employ strategies to help students through this period. It’s important to have a talk with your child before the program, to help alleviate any anxiety they may feel. COSMOS provides an ideal setting for students to expand their circle of friends and grow socially as well as intellectually.