Living Arrangements:

The REU program will take place on the campus of Keck Graduate Institute in Claremont, California. KGI is located a few blocks away from downtown Claremont and the other Claremont colleges. Since KGI does not have student housing, we have made arrangements to accommodate you during the summer in the dormitories of the Claremont Colleges. A refundable security deposit of $150 will be collected prior to arrival from each student staying in a dormitory room arranged by KGI. Limited kitchen facilities are available in the dormitories, and a number of dining halls are open during the summer. Library access, the college athletic facilities (swimming pool, tennis courts, gymnasium, weight room etc.), and computer access and facilities are available to all students free of charge. .

For NSF-funded positions, your stipend for the ten-week program equals $3975, plus full subsidy for campus housing (but not food!) during the program. Travel expenses to and from KGI (not including daily commute), up to a maximum of $450 will also be reimbursed. Air travel may be arranged through and billed directly to KGI. For non-NSF funded positions, salaries are negotiated on an individual basis, and usually do not include housing subsidy or travel allowance, although KGI will assist in arranging for air travel and dormitory rooms.

Recreational Activities:

At the Dodgers Stadium

Sea Kayaking in San Diego

Surfing USA

Joshua Tree National Park

Universal Studios, Hollywood

The program offered lots of opportunities to explore Southern California, and faculty at KGI twice invited the entire group into their homes for dinner. ~ Allison Moser, REU 2004

Claremont is a quiet little town, but surrounded by tons of activities. There is so much to do in Southern California, that it is hard to decide what to do the most. ~ Andrea Pallante, REU 2004

Two trips to the beach, two trips hiking in the mountains, and various trips to Hollywood concerts and amusement parks really kept the summer busy. ~ Aaron Jacobs, REU 2003

SoCal was such a great experience; there were so many places to explore on the weekends. Katie McKenzie, REU 2003

At KGI, extracurricular gathering of students is encouraged and made feasible through a student lounge with ping-pong and billiard tables as well as a big screen TV. Other facilities include a large grass area for soccer and ultimate Frisbee, and an outdoor patio suitable for parties and receptions. During the first week we will hold a welcoming reception, and end the summer with a farewell party.

Staying in Southern California:

Southern California is known for its great climate. The temperature in Claremont can get up to 100 degrees and it is usually very sunny and dry, so bring light clothes and sunscreen. The month of June is however notoriously overcast ("June gloom") and evenings are usually cool, so remember to pack some warm clothes and a warm blanket for your bed.

In the beginning, Claremont was much cooler than I expected. I would suggest telling next years' REU interns to be sure to bring sweatshirts. ~ Tiffany Sun, REU 2004

Southern California is further known for its lack of public transportation. REU students will often rent a car during the weekend to visit the beaches and tourist sights. Also keep in mind that living expenses are higher than in other parts of the nation.

Southern California is pretty awesome - going to the beaches, mountains, and around LA was a lot of fun, although trying to navigate around LA without a car can be quite a challenge. I definitely have a increased appreciation for the public transportation systems back home. ~ Patricia Gilligan, REU 2004


Around KGI:

The Claremont Colleges Website
Maps and Directions for KGI and of The Claremont Colleges

Things you might need within 2 miles of KGI: