Frequently Asked Questions

What will my schedule be like?
Students typically attend class from 9am-12pm Monday through Thursday. In the afternoons, there is time in the library or lectures by visiting professors. In the evenings, the library is available for further research, or students attend a GRE prep course. On Fridays, there can be trips to local archives and research centers. Weekends are often free for study, although sometimes there may be other events scheduled. At the end of the month, students attend a graduate recruitment fair and visit with representatives from many of the schools in our Consortium. They also present their research in a symposium in front of their fellow students.

You can download an example of last year's schedule here. While this is not what next year's schedule will look like, it should give you an idea of what to expect.

Where will I be living?
During the course of the Institute, students will be living in a residence hall on campus called Gebbie, which is one of the newest dorms on campus. During the academic year Gebbie is one of Wheaton's Special Interest/Living Learning Halls. Students should be prepared to live in a co-ed suite, although every students will have his/her own room. The dorm has wireless Internet access. The dorm has its own kitchen and lounge area.

Can I bring a computer?
Laptops with wireless capabilities are strongly recommended. Our library is equipped with enough computers for everyone, but students often find it easier to have their own computers. All of campus has wireless Internet access.

Can I bring a car?
Wheaton has plenty of free parking during the summer near the dorms.

Is there a gym?
Wheaton has both a fitness center and an athletic center. Our fitness center is equipped with an array of weight training equipment and cardio machines. The athletic center contains a nearly Olympic sized pool, indoor tennis courts and track, and an indoor basketball court.

Are meals provided in this program?
All meals are provided free of charge in one of Wheaton's dining areas. Students with special dietary needs should contact us ahead of time to make special arrangements.

Will my stipend go towards paying for the Institute?
All expenses for the Institute are already paid at no expense to the student. Students will receive a $2,500 stipend that is theirs to use.

Have more questions? Email them to the program coordinator at [silcs at wheatoncollege dot edu]