Frequently Asked Questions for SIP Interns (and Parents)


What kind of behavior is expected of interns during the program?

Interns are expected to behave in a professional manner throughout the program.
Key expectations are outlined below:

Communication

  • Interns are expected to communicate regularly with their mentor. If they are going to miss a meeting, experience a delay, or are unsure about something, they should inform their mentor promptly.
  • Interns must check their email daily. It is the primary method of communication used by SIP staff and mentors to share important updates.
Demeanor
  • Interns will be working in a professional environment with many different people. Interns should make sure to follow procedures about locking up and safety, moderating their voices inside, and keeping their space clean and trash-free.

I’ve been accepted! What are the next steps?

All accepted students must complete the following confirmation steps to secure their spot in the program.
If these steps are not completed by the deadlines listed in your acceptance email, your spot may be given to another applicant.

1. Confirm your acceptance by May 9, 2025
2. Pay your tuition by May 30, 2025
3. Select and pay for your housing by May 30, 2025
4. Select and pay for your transportation by May 30, 2025
5. Select your optional services by May 30, 2025
6. Complete and return your registration packet by June 6, 2025

Is transportation to/from UCSC available to interns who live in the Bay Area?

Yes! SIP offers two shuttle services—one from the north and one from the south of Santa Cruz. The north shuttle is operated by Lux Bus America, and the south shuttle is operated by UCSC Transportation. Both services are UCSC-sponsored and meet university insurance and safety requirements.

Shuttle Details:

  • Schedules and stops are posted on SIP’s Transportation Page.
    • The north shuttle stops at the Mountain View Caltrain Station and Saratoga High School each weekday morning and afternoon.
    • The south shuttle stops at Alisal High School (Salinas) and Watsonville High School on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons only.
    • Both shuttles drop off and pick up interns at Science Hill, 2300 Delaware Ave, and the Coastal Sciences Campus in Santa Cruz.
  • Families can sign up for shuttle service on a week-by-week basis for any or all of the seven weeks of the SIP program.
  • The north shuttle operates every weekday.
    An additional shuttle optionMonday morning and Friday afternoon only—is available for students using campus dorm housing.
  • Fees:
    • $200/week for daily weekday service
    • $65/week for Monday AM/Friday PM service only (for dorm residents)
  • Shuttle payments and sign-ups can be completed through the SIP registration page, along with tuition and housing selections.

The SIP program’s intention is to provide a transportation service that is efficient, convenient, and secure and to cover the costs without making a profit. Other options for families to consider are private carpools, public transportation, or older interns driving themselves to campus.

Where on the UCSC campus will the 2025 SIP interns be housed?

Interactive UCSC Campus Map

Full Campus Conference Parking Map

Additional Housing & Dining Resources

Can interns use the UCSC gym while in campus housing?

Yes! If you select your optional services by May 30, 2025, you’ll receive access to the UCSC Recreation Center. This includes full access to the Slug Recreation Complex (SRC) starting July 1, 2025, during operating hours. Facilities include:

  • East and West Field Houses (open)
  • Fitness Center (open)
  • Aquatics Center 50m Pool (open)
  • East and West Tennis Courts (open)
  • Racquetball Courts (closed until further notice)
  • East Gym (open)
  • Locker rooms with day-use lockers and lockers available for rent

The optional Recreation Center access fee is $100.

Is it possible for SIP interns who are staying in campus housing to drive to/from campus each week?

No. Students should not bring their vehicles when staying in the dorms.

Is it possible for SIP interns who are not staying in campus housing to drive to/from campus each day?

Interns may purchase parking permits at UCSC’s TAPS Sales Office. SIP will send a list of intern names to the TAPS office so interns should let the TAPS office staff know they are with this program. The TAPS office staff will give interns information about new parking permit prices and a map of where to park. Students must drive a car that belongs to them or their family, and they must bring a copy of the car registration and a photo ID with them. Cost of permit still TBD.

Where is the main UCSC Conference Services Office?

SIP will be using the Central Conference Office.

What do SIP interns who opt for campus housing have to bring with them?

Towels and sheets (the beds are extra long twins), plus personal items.

Can SIP interns leave items in the room over the weekend?

Yes, but we recommend that SIP interns take home any valuables just in case.

For SIP interns who will be arriving on Monday morning on the shuttle, what should they do?

They should go to the West Conference Office and check in there. They will receive Their keys and directions to the dorm.

Where can one find out more about campus housing?

More information can be found on the Campus Housing page.

Answers to Questions

If you have additional questions about the SIP application and enrollment process, please watch our Info Session or email us at ucsc-sip@ucsc.edu

Last modified: May 15, 2025