What are the benefits of participating in this program?

Participants have an opportunity to preview what it is like to live and learn at UVA. You will share a room with another incoming first-year student and get to spend time with other incoming students in an informal residential setting. You will also have exposure to the academic expectations associated with College classes. Additionally, you will be introduced to staff and faculty from offices across the University and to the range of resources available to students. By the time you leave, you will be familiar with UVA Grounds and know how to get where you need to go! Students who have participated in past residential programs share that its benefits are most striking when they return for fall semester and already have friends and know their way around Grounds!

How many students can participate in the Residential Program?

We have capacity for 50 students.

Do the two classes taken during the program meet any general education requirements?

LASE 2510 does not meet any general education requirements but does count as a College elective contributing to the 120 credits you need to graduate.

All courses on the list of approved College courses meet at least one of the general education curriculum’s Disciplines requirements. Note that a single course cannot apply to multiple Disciplines categories; a course that is listed as meeting two Disciplines categories will apply in your record to one OR the other, not both. Read more about the Disciplines here.

Do I need to bring a laptop or computer?

Yes. Most courses and much coursework assume regular access to a computer. Library computers exist but they are few, and far from the dorms. The New to UVA IT Checklist includes information about the expected technological minimums.

What if I want to take a class that isn't on the approved course list?

We recommend that you consider the list of pre-approved classes carefully, as they are selected with you in mind and some seats are reserved for program participants. You may, however, request permission to enroll in a class not on the list by emailing us.

Will these classes be on my transcript and count in my GPA?

Yes, the two classes you take as a participant in Hoos Getting Ready Residential will appear on your transcript and will be included in your GPA. 

Will my room be the same in the summer program and the fall semester?

No, Fall housing assignments are determined through a separate process and will not be the same as your summer accommodations. Make sure you respond to communications from Housing and Residence Life to arrange your residence hall and roommate assignments for the full academic year.

May I stay at UVA between the end of summer session and the beginning of the fall term?

No, students may not move directly from their summer housing assignment to their fall dorm. Students will be required to vacate their summer dorm by noon on Saturday, August 10. Hoos Getting Ready Residential does not offer a storage facility for students to use between the end of the summer program and start of fall semester.

What do I need to bring with me to Grounds?

Housing and Residence Life has a helpful list of what to bring (and what not to bring). Keep in mind that you will have to take everything with you when you leave on August 10.

What does the meal plan cover?

The College will pay for a Summer Block 60 Meal Plan which includes 60 meals at dining halls and $140 in flex dollars that can be spent at select locations near Grounds. Read more about the meal plan here.

What if I have special dietary needs or dietary restrictions?

The Dining Services team works directly with students to address specific questions and concerns. 

What is the advantage of participating in Spark?

The self-paced workshops included in Spark! are full of helpful tips and key academic resources. Engaging this content will provide you with valuable information about living and learning at UVA and is sure to spark excitement for beginning your fall semester.