<p>Hey, I'm a new Rice student, and I'm really interested in applying for the Urban Immersion program, but the website isn't too specific about what students in the program actually do. Could any Rice student who has done the program or is familiar with it please explain? Thanks!</p>
<p>Urban Immersion is an absolutely life changing experience. You spend the better part of a week doing service with various organizations around Houston. The morning is typically spent in one agency, with the afternoon at another. You have your choice of two different agencies in each time slot. Nighttime is spent eating, socializing, exploring the city, making amazing friends that you will have going into O-Week (a HUGE plus), and reflecting on yourself and your service. Additionally, you get to meet your O-Week coordinators early, as they come and meet with the Urban Immersion participants from their respective colleges. Best advice: DO IT.</p>
<p>If you apply are you guaranteed to get a spot? Also how much will it cost? >></p>
<p>^ My question too.</p>
<p>It is essentially free (you pay a $100 deposit but you get it back at the end of the program; you also only pay the deposit if you are accepted and have agreed to participate). However, you do have to pay for transportation to Houston and back.</p>
<p>UI was definitely my most memorable experience at Rice, more so than O-Week. I would definitely apply, and if you are accepted, be sure to go! If not, you are going to be missing out. Good luck with your applications!</p>
<p>How difficult is it to be accepted?</p>
<p>Urban Immersion is as competitive as the number of applicants that apply. There are two sessions with something like 20 incoming new students in each one, so if 100 people apply, it will be quite competitive. If 50 people apply, you’ll have a better shot. Be thorough and heartfelt in your app.</p>
<p>so all we have to pay for is the deposit? o.o will housing/food be provided :O</p>
<p>And yea i am definitely applying, hopefully I can see some of you there :)</p>
<p>@Tilgaham - Thanks for the response. I haven’t had a chance to look at the app yet (AP exams and final projects are taking up all my free time haha), is there an essay? If so I’ve got everything I’m going to write already planned out. :D</p>
<p>If memory serves, there is an essay. Food and lodging are provided!</p>
<p>Hey guys! I am about to enter Rice as a member of its Class of 2015 and received information about the Urban Immersion program in my welcome packet. The opportunities it provides and the feedback I have received from Rice students who have attended the program is excellent. However, I have a large dance performance during the second slot UI is offered and during the first UI week, I will be practicing intensely.</p>
<p>Is it possible for sophomores, juniors, and seniors at Rice to participate in UI, or is it only an opportunity for incoming freshmen? Likewise, if I cannot participate the first year, is it still possible for me to become a program coordinator in later years? </p>
<p>Thank you :)</p>
<p>Urban Immersion is a program offered to incoming Freshmen and Transfer students. You do not have to have participated in UI to be a program coordinator. Hope this helps!</p>