Q. Am I eligible to apply?
A. MITE is open to high school sophomores and juniors during the 2008-2009 school year who have an interest in math, science, and engineering.  In order for a student's application to be considered, students must be ranked in the top 30% of their class OR have scored a minimum of 500 on the SAT Math section OR have scored a minimum of 50 on the PSAT Math section.  Hispanic, African-American, and Native American students as well as those who have overcome any social or economic hardship are strongly encouraged to apply. All students are welcome to apply.  50 students will be chosen to attend each session. MITE is open to out-of-state students.

Q. What criteria are used in reviewing applications?
A. We are most interested in the academic preparation of the student (essays, grades, SAT scores, rank) and the student’s interest in attending. Many of the students who apply to the MITE program are outstanding students and leaders in their communities. In addition to academics, we also consider socioeconomic status in order to provide opportunities to those who are overcoming any social or economic hardship.

Q.  Will participating in MITE boost my chances of being accepted into The Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin?
A.  Students are encouraged to list their participation in MITE on their admissions resume or write about their experiences in their college essay if they choose to do so.  However, MITE students receive no extra advantage in the admissions process and no extra points simply based on participation.  For a list of the academic and personal achievement factors that the Office of Admissions considers when reviewing applications, visit www.bealonghorn.utexas.edu/freshmen/admission/factors/index.html

Q. Are there transportation scholarships to MITE?
A. Meals and housing are paid for through donations from our sponsors. Students are responsible for coordinating their own transportation to and from The University of Texas at Austin. Students may fly in but will be responsible for arranging their transportation to and from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Q. Will I be able to choose my roommate?
A. In order to provide you with the collegiate experience, you will be matched with a student from a different school. Successful students at UT Austin have the demonstrated ability to adapt to different environments and a desire to broaden their perspectives.  At MITE, we hope to foster this growth. Switching roommates during mid-week is highly discouraged and will only be allowed in extreme circumstances.

Q. May I attend other non-MITE activities during the program?
A. While it is great that MITE students are involved in many different activities, unfortunately students will not be allowed to leave campus to fulfill other obligations (night classes, swim practice, etc.). During MITE, students will be participating in group projects, activities, and seminars from morning to night. 100% participation is required from the student so that they may benefit from the entire program.

Q.  May I arrive late or leave early?
A.  Student check-in is tentatively scheduled on the Sunday of your session from 12 Noon-1:30 PM.   Check out is tentatively scheduled on the Friday of your session from 1:00-2:30 PM.  There will be NO STAFF available to assist you with checking in late or leaving the program early. Please adjust your schedule ahead of time to accommodate the MITE program.  If you are not able to adjust your schedule, please call the program coordinator so that we can offer your spot to someone on the waiting list. 

Q.  May I have visitors during MITE?
A.  MITE will have structured opportunities for friends and family to visit. More information will be provided during orientation on the first day of MITE. In order to create a comfortable and safe environment for all students, visitors will not be permitted in the dorm with the exception of parents picking or dropping off their child. MITE counselors will stay in the dorms with the students to help enforce the rules. 

Q.  May I leave campus?
A.  Students are not allowed to leave campus without the supervision of a MITE counselor or the MITE coordinator.  Students are not allowed to leave campus with visitors during the program.

Q.  May I bring my car?
A.  Parents are encouraged to drop and pick up their child from the program. However, if this cannot be arranged, students may bring their own car.  Parking will be available in one of the garages for $10 per day.  There is no free parking on campus. Students will not be allowed to drive their car or leave campus at any time during the program.  This rule will be strictly enforced.

Q.  May I bring a cell phone?
A.  Yes, we encourage students to use their cell phones to call their friends and family during meals or any free time.  Cell phones must be turned off during activities, presentations, and group work.  Phones will not be provided in dorm rooms.

Q.  Is there a dress code?
A.  No, however we expect students to use their judgment in dressing like young adults. Students should dress casually for hot weather (shorts and t-shirts are fine) and bring comfortable walking shoes.  There will be a lot of walking every day. Students will be required to change their clothing if it is offensive or inappropriate.