Brilliance Meets Innovation at Caltech (California Institute of Technology)

Situated in the vibrant center of Pasadena, California, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) stands as a symbol of scientific prowess and technological breakthroughs.  This small but mighty institution has consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, producing groundbreaking research and nurturing some of the brightest minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Caltech such a unique and prestigious place of learning.

A Brief History

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) was founded in 1891 as Throop University by local businessman and politician Amos G. Throop. It was originally established as a vocational school, but quickly evolved into a scientific and engineering institute.

Historical Milestones

• 1910: The school was renamed California Institute of Technology.
• 1920s: Under the leadership of physicist Robert A. Millikan, Caltech began its transformation into a world-class scientific institution.
• 1930s-1940s: Caltech played a crucial role in World War II research efforts, including the Manhattan Project.
• 1960s-present: The institute continued to expand its research capabilities and academic programs, cementing its reputation as a leading science and engineering university.

Mission

Caltech’s mission is to expand human knowledge and benefit society through research integrated with education. The institute is committed to:

• Investigating the most challenging fundamental scientific questions.
• Innovating technologies that will transform the future.
• Educating outstanding students to become creative members of society.
• Fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and scientific integrity.

Key Aspects of Caltech’s Approach

• Interdisciplinary research: Caltech encourages collaboration across different fields of science and engineering.
• Small size, big impact: Despite its relatively small student body, Caltech has an outsized influence on scientific research and discovery.
• Focus on STEM: The institute is primarily dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
• Close student-faculty interaction: With a low student-to-faculty ratio, Caltech offers students unique opportunities for mentorship and research experience.

Location and Campus

Caltech’s 124-acre campus is located in Pasadena, California, a vibrant city known for its cultural attractions, including the Rose Bowl and the annual Tournament of Roses Parade. The campus itself is a blend of historic and modern architecture, creating an inspiring environment for learning and research.

Campus Highlights:

• Beautiful Mediterranean-style buildings
• State-of-the-art research facilities
• Lush gardens and open spaces
• Proximity to Los Angeles and its diverse offerings

Academic Excellence

Caltech’s reputation for academic rigor and innovation is well-deserved. The institute operates on a quarter system, with three terms spanning from late September to early June. This fast-paced academic calendar allows students to dive deep into their studies and engage in intensive research projects.

Rankings and Accolades

Caltech consistently ranks among the top universities globally:

Notably, Caltech has been ranked 1st internationally in Engineering & Technology and Physical Sciences.

Admissions

Gaining admission to Caltech is extremely competitive. The institute is known for its highly selective process:

Caltech’s test-blind policy, implemented in 2020, has been extended for future admissions cycles, emphasizing a holistic review of applicants.

Student Body and Demographics

Despite its small size, Caltech boasts a diverse and talented student population. As of the 2021-2022 academic year, the institute enrolled:

• 987 undergraduate students
• 1,410 graduate students

The student body is characterized by its diversity and academic prowess:

Women make up 45% of the undergraduate population and 33% of the graduate student body.

Campus Life and Student Experience

Life at Caltech is as intellectually stimulating as it is socially engaging. The institute’s small size fosters a tight-knit community where collaboration and camaraderie thrive.

Housing and Dining

Caltech takes pride in its residential life:

• 95% of undergraduates live in on-campus housing
• First-year students are required to live on campus
• The housing system plays a crucial role in student life and governance

Caltech Dining Services caters to various dietary needs, offering:

• Kosher and Halal meals
• Late-plates for student-athletes
• Get-Well Meals for sick students
• Special dietary accommodations

Clubs and Activities

Despite its focus on STEM fields, Caltech offers a rich array of extracurricular activities:

• Campus Ministries
• Dance and Drama groups
• Film Society
• International Student Organizations
• Student Government
• Music ensembles and choral groups

Traditions and Events

Caltech is home to unique traditions that foster community spirit:

• Big I/Interhouse parties are considered the biggest social events of the year
• The Caltech Y, founded in 1916, continues to provide extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities

Caltech is renowned not only for its academic excellence but also for its unique traditions and events that foster a sense of community and creativity among its students. Here are some of the most notable traditions and events that define the Caltech experience:

Ditch Day

Ditch Day is perhaps the most iconic tradition at Caltech. This event, which dates back to 1921, originally involved seniors ditching classes for a day. Over time, it evolved into a day filled with intricate scavenger hunts and puzzles known as “stacks,” created by seniors for underclassmen to solve.  These stacks often involve complex themes and require teamwork, embodying the collaborative spirit of Caltech student.

Interhouse Parties

Each of Caltech’s residential houses hosts an Interhouse party annually. These parties are major social events on campus, where each house decorates and plans unique activities. The events foster friendly competition and camaraderie among the houses.

Rotation

Rotation is a tradition that helps freshmen integrate into the Caltech community. At the beginning of the academic year, freshmen visit each of the 11 residential houses, meet the residents, and participate in various activities. At the end of Rotation, freshmen rank their preferred houses, and nearly all students get their first or second choice. This process ensures that students find a community where they feel most comfortable.

Pranks

Caltech students are known for their ingenious pranks, often involving rival institutions like MIT. One famous prank involved sending heat-sensitive coffee mugs to MIT’s admitted students. When the mugs were cool, they displayed “MIT the Institute of Technology” in MIT’s colors. When hot, the mugs revealed “Caltech the HOTTER Institute of Technology” with a palm tree, showcasing Caltech’s playful rivalry and creativity.

Pi Day

On March 14th (3/14), Caltech celebrates Pi Day with various activities centered around the mathematical constant π. One popular event is a pie-eating celebration held at precisely 1:59 a.m., where students enjoy 26 different kinds of pie. Other activities include creating a paper chain with each piece of paper representing a digit of π.

Pumpkin Drop

Every Halloween, students participate in the Pumpkin Drop, also known as “Splatterday.” In this event, pumpkins frozen with liquid nitrogen are dropped from the rooftop of Caltech Hall. The pumpkins shatter upon impact, creating a spectacular display. This tradition, which dates back to 1972, combines scientific curiosity with festive fun.

ME 72 Engineering Design Contest

The ME 72 Engineering Design Contest is a two-term course where students design and build robots to compete in a specific task. The competition often involves creative challenges, such as amphibious robots battling for control of floating towers or robots engaging in a sumo-style battle. This event highlights Caltech’s emphasis on hands-on learning and innovation.

Three Minute Thesis

The Three Minute Thesis competition challenges graduate students to present their research in just three minutes. Participants must convey the significance and impact of their work clearly and concisely. The winner receives a cash prize, adding an element of excitement to this academic challenge.

Frosh Camp

Frosh Camp is an orientation event for incoming freshmen, designed to help them transition into college life. The camp includes team-building activities, workshops, and social events, providing a supportive environment for new students to bond and acclimate to Caltech’s rigorous academic environment.

Ride of the Valkyries

During finals week, students are awakened by the blaring sound of Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries” played over loudspeakers. This tradition serves as a humorous and dramatic reminder of the impending exams, adding a touch of levity to a stressful time.

House rivalries at Caltech manifest throughout the year in various ways, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere on campus. These rivalries are an integral part of student life, fostering camaraderie within houses while promoting friendly competition between them. Here’s how these rivalries typically play out:

Interhouse Sports Competitions

One of the primary ways house rivalries manifest is through interhouse sports competitions. For example:

• Interhouse Dodgeball: This is one of the first interhouse sports events of the academic year. Each house fields a team to compete in a best-of-three dodgeball tournament. It’s an excellent opportunity for newly rotated first-year students to integrate into the interhouse culture.
• Interhouse Volleyball: Following dodgeball, houses compete in volleyball matches, continuing the friendly rivalry.

These sports events not only showcase athletic skills but also serve as a platform for houses to display their team spirit and unity.

Pranks and Practical Jokes

Caltech is famous for its prank culture, and house rivalries often manifest through elaborate pranks:

• Inter-House Pranks: Houses occasionally play pranks on each other. For instance, Page House has been known to perform several pranks on Fleming House.
• Collaborative Pranks: Sometimes, houses join forces to prank other institutions, like MIT, showcasing a united Caltech front against external rivals.

Interhouse Parties

Each of Caltech’s residential houses hosts an annual Interhouse party. These events are major social gatherings on campus where each house:

• Decorates their space according to a chosen theme
• Plans unique activities and entertainment
• Competes to throw the most impressive party

This friendly competition allows houses to showcase their creativity and organizational skills while providing a fun social outlet for all students.

Academic Competitions

Given Caltech’s academic focus, house rivalries can also manifest in intellectual challenges:

• House GPA Competitions: Houses might compete to achieve the highest collective GPA.
• Research Showcases: Houses may organize events to highlight the research accomplishments of their members.

House Pride Displays

Throughout the year, houses display their pride in various ways:

• House Colors and Symbols: Students often wear their house colors or display house symbols.
• House Chants and Songs: During events, houses may engage in competitive cheering or singing of house-specific songs.

Rotation Period

While not strictly a manifestation of rivalry, the Rotation period at the beginning of the academic year is crucial in establishing house identities:

• Freshmen visit each house, participating in activities and meeting residents.
• Houses showcase their unique cultures and traditions to attract new members.
• This process indirectly fuels rivalries as houses compete to make the best impression on potential new members.

Memorable Pranks Between Caltech Houses

Caltech is renowned for its culture of pranks, which are often elaborate, creative, and executed with a high degree of technical skill. These pranks are a significant part of the student experience and contribute to the friendly rivalries between the residential houses. Here are some of the most memorable pranks between Caltech houses:

Page House vs. Fleming House

One of the most well-known intra-house rivalries is between Page House and Fleming House. Over the years, Page House has orchestrated several pranks on Fleming House, showcasing their ingenuity and playful spirit.

• The Fleming Cannon Heist: Although this prank involved MIT, it originated from Page House’s rivalry with Fleming House. In 2006, MIT students stole the 130-year-old, 1.7-ton Fleming House cannon and transported it across the country to MIT’s campus. This prank was a response to earlier pranks by Caltech students at MIT and remains one of the most famous pranks in Caltech history.

Ricketts House vs. Other Houses

Ricketts House, known for its rebellious and creative spirit, has also been involved in several memorable pranks.

• The Hollywood Sign Alteration: In 1987, Ricketts House students altered the iconic Hollywood sign to read “CALTECH.” This prank required careful planning and execution, as the students had to navigate security and the logistics of modifying such a well-known landmark.

Lloyd House vs. Other Houses

Lloyd House is another active participant in the pranking culture at Caltech.

• The Lloyd House Watermelon Drop: This annual event, while not a prank in the traditional sense, involves dropping a watermelon from the top of Millikan Library. The event is a lighthearted tradition that showcases the house’s playful nature and has become a beloved part of Caltech’s culture.

Memorable Pranks Between Caltech and MIT

The rivalry between Caltech and MIT is legendary, with both institutions engaging in a series of high-profile pranks over the years. These pranks often involve significant planning and technical expertise, reflecting the engineering prowess of both schools.

Caltech’s Pranks on MIT

• MIT Campus Preview Weekend (2005): During MIT’s Campus Preview Weekend, Caltech students flew to Cambridge and executed several pranks. They distributed over 400 T-shirts that appeared to be MIT merchandise but had “Because not everyone can get into Caltech” printed on the back. They also projected “Caltech” in green lasers on MIT’s Green Building and released 100 orange balloons (Caltech’s color) along with a blimp bearing the letters “CIT” (California Institute of Technology).

MIT’s Pranks on Caltech

• The Fleming Cannon Heist (2006): In retaliation for the 2005 pranks, MIT students stole the Fleming House cannon and transported it to their campus. This elaborate prank required significant logistical planning and remains one of the most famous pranks in the history of both institutions.

Collaborative Pranks

• April Fools’ Day (2024): In a more recent development, Caltech and MIT engaged in a collaborative prank for April Fools’ Day. Caltech students, with assistance from MIT’s student newspaper, produced a spoof issue containing anti-MIT satire, which was distributed on MIT’s campus. Concurrently, MIT students created a mock newspaper titled “The Massachusetts Tech,” filled with anti-Caltech content, which was circulated at Caltech. This prank highlighted the friendly rivalry and mutual respect between the two institutions.

Caltech Pranks That Backfired

Pranking is a cherished tradition at Caltech, fostering creativity and camaraderie among students. However, not all pranks go as planned, and some have backfired spectacularly. Here are a few notable examples of Caltech pranks that didn’t quite turn out as intended:

The Caltech Cannon Heist by Harvey Mudd

The Heist: In March 1986, a group of Harvey Mudd College students successfully stole the Fleming House cannon from Caltech. Disguised as a work crew, they used a forklift and trucks to transport the cannon to their campus, where they celebrated their victory enthusiastically.

The Backfire: While the prank was initially a success, it eventually led to significant stress for the Harvey Mudd students. They had to constantly guard the cannon to prevent Caltech from reclaiming it. The situation escalated to the point where Harvey Mudd freshmen were sleeping next to the cannon for protection. The prank also attracted media attention, and alumni from both schools got involved, adding pressure to return the cannon. Ultimately, the presidents of both colleges intervened, and Harvey Mudd agreed to return the cannon to Caltech.

The MIT Retaliation Prank

The Heist: In a famous retaliation prank, MIT students stole the Fleming House cannon from Caltech in 2006. They transported it across the country and displayed it on MIT’s campus. The prank involved meticulous planning, including forged moving orders and significant logistical coordination.

The Backfire: While the prank was executed flawlessly from MIT’s perspective, it caused considerable embarrassment and frustration for Caltech, particularly Fleming House. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of the cannon and led to increased security measures around it. Additionally, the prank strained the relationship between the two institutions, although it also became a legendary story in the annals of college pranks.

Harvey Mudd’s Late-Night Caltech Prank

The Prank: In 2019, Harvey Mudd students attempted another elaborate prank on Caltech. They constructed a monument filled with sand and planned to attach a plaque to it. The prank was complicated by a schoolwide party and a fire alarm that brought many Caltech students to the scene, increasing the risk of discovery.

The Backfire: Despite their best efforts, the Harvey Mudd students were repeatedly interrupted by curious and suspicious Caltech students. One particularly persistent and inebriated Caltech senior, Jack Lloyd, stayed on the scene for an extended period, making it difficult for the pranksters to complete their task. The pranksters had to resort to various tactics, including fabricating stories and hiding behind dumpsters, to avoid detection. Although they eventually managed to attach the plaque, the prank did not go as smoothly as planned, and the structure was partially deconstructed by Caltech students.

The Hollywood Sign Alteration

The Prank: In 1987, Ricketts House students altered the iconic Hollywood sign to read “CALTECH.” This prank required careful planning and execution, as the students had to navigate security and the logistics of modifying such a well-known landmark.

The Backfire: While the prank was successful and garnered significant attention, it led to increased security measures around the Hollywood sign, including the installation of barbed wire to prevent future alterations. The prank also drew mixed reactions from the public and authorities, highlighting the potential risks and consequences of high-profile pranks.

The History Behind Caltech’s Mascot, the Beaver

Caltech has a rich history and a distinctive mascot that reflects its commitment to engineering and science. The beaver, known as “nature’s engineer,” is a fitting symbol for an institution dedicated to technological innovation and academic excellence.

Origins of the Beaver Mascot

The beaver was chosen as Caltech’s mascot for its engineering prowess and industrious nature. The decision to adopt the beaver as the mascot was made by Caltech’s founding fathers: astronomer George Ellery Hale, physicist Robert Andrews Millikan, and chemist Arthur Amos Noyes. These influential figures, often referred to as “Tinker, Thinker, and Stinker,” saw the beaver as an ideal representation of the school’s values and mission.

Symbolism and Significance

The beaver is renowned for its ability to build complex structures, such as dams and lodges, using natural materials. This characteristic aligns perfectly with Caltech’s focus on engineering and problem-solving. The beaver’s industriousness, intelligence, and resourcefulness embody the qualities that Caltech aims to instill in its students.

The Beaver’s Name: Bernoulli

In a recent development, the Caltech community voted to name the beaver mascot “Bernoulli.” This name was chosen through a poll conducted by the Caltech Student-Athlete Advisory Council, with over 700 individuals participating in the voting process. Bernoulli was the most popular name among more than 100 nominations, garnering over 50 percent of the votes in each category.  The name Bernoulli pays homage to the Bernoulli family, a prominent Swiss family known for their contributions to mathematics and science, particularly in fluid dynamics. The announcement of the name was made during a ceremony at the Braun Athletic Center courtyard, where a new beaver statue, sculpted by Walter Horak, was unveiled. The statue symbolizes the strength, persistence, intelligence, and loyalty of Caltech’s sports teams.

The Beaver in Campus Life

The beaver mascot is more than just a symbol; it plays an active role in fostering school spirit and unity among students. The mascot appears at various athletic events, rallies, and other campus activities, encouraging students to take pride in their institution and its achievements.

Notable Mentions and Cultural Impact

The beaver mascot has also made its mark in popular culture. For instance, the Emmy-nominated television series “The Big Bang Theory,” set at Caltech, featured the beaver mascot in some of its episodes, further cementing its place in the public imagination.

The beaver mascot at Caltech is a powerful symbol that encapsulates the institution’s dedication to engineering, innovation, and academic excellence. Named Bernoulli, the beaver represents the qualities that Caltech values most: intelligence, resourcefulness, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. As a beloved figure on campus, the beaver mascot continues to inspire and unite the Caltech community, reflecting the spirit and aspirations of this prestigious institution.

 

Athletic Programs and Conference

Caltech, officially known as the California Institute of Technology, participates in NCAA Division III athletics. The school’s teams are called the Caltech Beavers, with the beaver mascot chosen as a tribute to “nature’s engineer.” Caltech is a member of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC), which it co-founded in 1915.

Sports Offered

Caltech offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs, including:

• Baseball
• Men’s and Women’s Basketball
• Cross Country
• Men’s and Women’s Soccer
• Swimming and Diving
• Men’s and Women’s Tennis
• Track and Field
• Women’s Volleyball
• Men’s and Women’s Water Polo

Some sources also mention fencing as a club sport that competes against Division I schools.

Athletic Facilities

The main athletic facility is the Braun Athletic Center. Track and field events are held at the South Athletic Field in Tournament Park, which is historically significant as the site of the first Rose Bowl Game.

Student-Athlete Participation

As of the most recent data provided, 301 student-athletes participate in varsity sports at Caltech, with 170 male athletes and 131 female athletes.

Coaching Staff

Caltech employs 16 head coaches, evenly split between men’s and women’s teams. There are also assistant coaches for various sports. The average salary for men’s team head coaches is slightly higher than that for women’s team head coaches.

Financial Aspects

In recent years, Caltech’s athletic department has operated with a small profit. The department collected $2,782,084 in revenue and spent $2,706,370 in expenses, resulting in a profit of $75,714.

Notable Achievements and History

While Caltech is primarily known for its academic prowess, there have been some notable athletic achievements:

• In 2007, the men’s basketball team ended a 207-game losing streak against Division III schools.
• In 2011, the men’s basketball team won their first SCIAC game since 1985.
• The women’s basketball team earned their first conference win in 2007.
• In 2013, the baseball team ended a 228-game losing streak.

Athletic Philosophy

Given Caltech’s intense academic focus, athletics play a complementary role in student life. The emphasis appears to be on providing opportunities for student-athletes to compete and develop skills rather than on achieving national prominence in sports.

While Caltech may not be known as an athletic powerhouse, its sports programs offer students the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level while pursuing rigorous academic studies. The institute’s commitment to a diverse range of sports and its historical connection to events like the Rose Bowl demonstrate the ongoing importance of athletics in campus life.

Academic Resources and Support

Caltech is committed to supporting its students’ academic journey through various resources:

Library Services

The Caltech Library offers comprehensive support for research and academic pursuits:

• Assistance with finding sources for papers
• Guidance on publishing options and author rights
• Access to extensive databases and journal articles

Writing Center

The Hixon Writing Center provides:

• One-to-one tutoring experiences
• Collaborative and interactive writing support
• Workshops and presentations on various writing topics

Career Services

The Career Development Center offers:

• Resume and cover letter reviews
• Interview preparation
• Career counseling
• Pre-health program guidance

International Student Support

The International Offices provide comprehensive support for international students and scholars:

• Immigration assistance
• Cross-cultural programming
• Academic and social support

Research Opportunities

Caltech’s commitment to research is evident in its numerous programs and initiatives:

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF)

SURF is Caltech’s flagship undergraduate research program, allowing students to:

• Engage in hands-on research projects
• Work alongside faculty mentors
• Gain valuable experience in their fields of interest

Faculty-in-Residence Program

This unique program facilitates:

• Student-faculty interaction outside the classroom
• Informal mentorship relationships
• Enhanced educational experiences in science and engineering

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Caltech is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community:

Center for Inclusion & Diversity (CCID)

The CCID provides:

• Education and advocacy for diversity
• Allyship programs
• Non-clinical confidential resources for students

LGBTQ+ Support

The LGBTQ+ Working Group aims to:

• Address institutional disparities
• Enhance the experience of LGBTQ+ community members
• Provide resources and support for LGBTQ+ students

Student Support Services

Caltech offers a range of support services to ensure student well-being and success:

Counseling Services

• Mental health support
• Stress management resources
• Individual and group counseling sessions

Accessibility Services

Caltech Accessibility Services for Students (CASS) provides:

• Academic adjustments for students with disabilities
• Accommodations to ensure equal access to Institute programs and activities

Health and Wellness

• On-campus health center
• Wellness programs and workshops
• Resources for maintaining physical and mental health

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Caltech fosters a culture of innovation that extends beyond the classroom:

Technology Transfer

• Support for patenting and licensing student and faculty inventions
• Collaboration with industry partners

Startup Incubators

• Resources for student entrepreneurs
• Mentorship programs for turning research into viable businesses

Environmental Sustainability

Caltech is committed to environmental stewardship:

• Sustainability initiatives across campus
• Research focused on addressing climate change and environmental challenges
• Green building practices in new construction and renovations

Alumni Network and Impact

Caltech’s alumni have made significant contributions to various fields:

• Nobel laureates
• Influential scientists and engineers
• Successful entrepreneurs and business leaders

The institute maintains strong connections with its alumni, providing networking opportunities and career support for current students.

Conclusion

The California Institute of Technology stands as a testament to the power of curiosity, innovation, and scientific rigor.  Its small size belies its enormous impact on the world of science and technology.  For students seeking an intellectually challenging environment, unparalleled research opportunities, and a close-knit community of brilliant minds, Caltech offers an educational experience like no other.  From its beautiful Pasadena campus to its cutting-edge research facilities, from its diverse student body to its world-renowned faculty, Caltech continues to shape the future of science and technology.  As the institute moves forward, it remains committed to its founding mission: expanding human knowledge and benefiting society through the seamless integration of research and education.  Whether you’re a prospective student, a curious observer, or simply someone interested in the world of elite scientific institutions, Caltech’s story is one of inspiration, discovery, and relentless pursuit of excellence.