Cohorts and institutes
i3 seeks to identify promising undergraduate students and help them to explore the field through a series of events and projects.
If accepted into the i3 program, you will attend a four week summer institute in year one, participate in a yearlong research project, and come back for a two week concluding institute in year two.
The institutes take place at the School of Information Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh. All expenses, including travel, lodging and dining, are taken care of while you are in Pittsburgh. In addition, you receive a generous stipend during both institutes.
-
Year one: explore the field
You explore the information sciences discipline, identify potential topics that match your interests, and learn how to access the academic, career and financial opportunities that are available. Practical seminars on applying to and succeeding in graduate school are paired with cultural and social events.
-
The research year: work as a team
After the first institute, you pursue a yearlong team project using social networking or collaborative technology in an area you are passionate about, mentored every step of the way by faculty. Projects might range from building an online book club to designing a social networking site for a specific audience to creating an application for mobile devices.
-
Year two: present and plan
You return to Pittsburgh for another two week institute, where you present your project, critique and review the projects by other teams, develop a career and course of study plan, and consult with representatives from many iSchools.
National guest speakers and site visits
Each institute features nationally recognized guest speakers, opportunities to meet and interact with faculty and students from various iSchools, and the chance to visit information based corporations and organizations, of which there are many in Pittsburgh. All courses and workshops are taught by a team of iSchool faculty, doctoral students and professionals.
See the 2011 guest lecturers and the 2011 research projects for examples.
Explore Pittsburgh
You will benefit from spending a month, all expenses paid, exploring one of America's best kept secrets. Pittsburgh is home to numerous universities and colleges, world class museums, nationally recognized sports teams and many information based organizations. The city receives rave reviews for its art scene, the parks and walking and biking trails that line its three rivers, and the diversity of architecture and people within the region.
Learn more about Pittsburgh and the iSchools Caucus that supports this program.