The Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) Theme Program: exploring math, science, and engineering
The Women in Science and Engineering Theme Program began in 1999 as a place for women to explore their interest in math, science, and engineering alongside peers. A live-in Theme Program Assistant provides resources and support for residents’ social and academic needs. Our academic seminar includes learning from faculty and peers, mixed with career advising tailored to math, science, and engineering work. Continuing WiSE students can become mentors for new residents. Residents participate in socials, community outreach and activities, and have meaningful interaction with faculty and staff. WiSE students have fun, grow as women and as leaders, and form friendships that can last a lifetime.

Program requirements
WiSE residents are expected to spend 2-4 hours a week engaged in Theme Program activities including:

• Enrollment in at least 2 math, science, or engineering classes each semester
• Enrollment and active participation in the MCB 98 fall and spring WiSE seminar (Fall 2011: Mondays, 6-7:30pm)-->
• Attendance at WiSE meetings
• Participation in Theme Program events, community service activities, and the mentor program

Seminar and events
The seminar is a 2-unit pass/no pass class that meets once a week in the residence hall during the evening. You can review a sample course syllabus to get an idea about the coursework and expectations. If you’re admitted to WiSE, you will be given more information about how to enroll in the class. Events include a wide variety of leadership and community-building activities like dinners with faculty, study groups, on-site tutoring, mentoring, and field trips.

Expanded opportunities for all women in science and engineering at Cal!
NEW as of fall 2011: now you don't have to live in the WiSE Program to take advantage of many of WiSE's resources. Read this for more information (pdf, 1 page).

The Living space
WiSE residents live together in Foothill, in the Hillside complex, which is situated in the beautiful Berkeley hills on the northeast end of campus. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the center of campus, and there is a free nearby shuttle service to drive you around campus.

You can take a virtual tour of sample furnished suites in Foothill (click on the links in the right column). Each room has in-room network connections and basic cable, and Foothill has laundry facilities, vending machines, and live-in staff. Most students have a roommate, and eat meals in the Foothill Dining Commons. Residents have access to a great Academic Services Center in Foothill, which offers tutoring, peer advising, copy and fax services, and computers and printers.

How to apply
Any female student who holds a strong interest in math, science, and engineering is encouraged to apply. You must complete the UC Berkeley housing application by the deadline. On the online application Theme Program page, select WiSE from the drop-down menu; at a prompt, you'll also be asked to write a short essay. The housing contract you receive will indicate if you have been selected to the Theme Program.

If you have additional questions that are not answered here, you can call 510/642-3213.