SMASH students live in UC Berkeley or Stanford campus housing in gender-specific suites. Campus housing activities are monitored by trained resident assistants. Scholars participate in planned weekly recreational activities, and have use of many terrific campus resources in their limited free time. Room and board are free to all SMASH Academy scholars.
Meet the 2011 SMASH: Berkeley Residential Team. 
Meet the 2011 SMASH: Stanford Residential Team.

SMASH Academy Residential Program FAQs

Q:  Can my family visit me during SMASH Academy?
A:  Yes, you will have free time scheduled on the weekends when your family can visit.

Q:  Will I have free time to talk with my family and friends?
A:  Yes, you will have internet access and use of your cellphone available to communicate with family and friends.

Q:  Where will I live?
A:  SMASH Scholars will be provided with campus housing. You will share a room with one or more scholars. 

Q:  Will I need to have money for food?
A:  All of your food costs are included:  breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks.

Q:  Will I need money for other purchases?
A:  You can bring money for incidental purchases. In addition, scholars have the chance to earn a weekly stipend for spending money.

Q:  What if I get sick?
A:  The Residential Assistants (RA) & Residential Director are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist scholars.

Q:  What if I have special medical needs?
A:  Health records are submitted before program begins, and the residential staff will work with special situations as needed.

Q:  What will we do when we are not in class
A:  Scholars will work on homework, rest, play sports, and participate in other fun activities.

Q:  What will we do on the weekends?
A:  You will attend field trips, study, do homework and have fun with your new friends.

Q:  What do I bring with me?
A:  Once admitted, a comprehensive list will be provided.

Q:  Where will I do laundry?
A:  Machines for washing clothes are available near your residence.

Q:  How will I find my way around campus?
A:  The RA’s will provide support to orient Scholars to residential halls and campus.

Q:  Why is SMASH a residential program?
A: By living on campus, students get a taste of the college experience and are compelled to learn to prioritize their efforts and manage their full schedules.  The residential environment simulates the college experience so that when scholars do begin college, they know what to expect and are prepared.  SMASH scholars also have the opportunity to receive social, emotional and academic support from their residential advisors.

Q:  What if I have additional questions about the residential program?
A:  Once admitted to SMASH Academy, scholars will receive a Scholar Handbook and both scholars and their families will have ample time in meetings with the administrative team to have questions answered.

Q:  Who is the Residential Director and who will be my RAs?
A:  Click on the links and you can see profiles of the residential staff for SMASH: Berkeley 2011 and for SMASH: Stanford 2011.