Future Engineers Build Robots in Summer Transition Program

Oct. 4, 2024 - Incoming UCI engineering students learned how to design, build and program their own robots in the Summer Transition Program hosted by the Office of Outreach, Access, and Inclusion (OAI) in the Samueli School of Engineering. The signature one-week residential program for incoming freshmen and transfer students helps ease the students’ transition to UCI by connecting students with a community that will support them throughout their educational journey. 

“Summer bridge programs like this one are key in fostering a sense of belonging and community among students early on in their educational journey, which directly impacts their retention and success,” said Analía Rao, Executive Director, Stacey Nicholas Office of Outreach, Access and Inclusion. “By connecting with peers, faculty, and vital resources across campus, students build the relationships and support systems they need to thrive at UCI and beyond."

David Copp, assistant mechanical and aerospace engineering professor of teaching at UCI, taught the 60 students how to design, build and program a robotic vehicle using Arduino software. The program, which went from August 25-30, equipped them with useful tech and teamwork skills and allowed students to use their creativity in the designs they 3D printed and laser cut to personalize their vehicles.

“Even though many students had no previous experience with solid modeling, manufacturing, electronics, and microcontrollers, they were excited to work together to learn new things,” Copp said. He said the goals of the tech challenge were to provide a fun environment for students to connect with their peers, introduce hands-on resources available for engineering students, and give them a jump start with hardware and software, like 3D Printing and SolidWorks design.

The teachers were impressed by what the students accomplished in such a short time. “By the end of the week, teams had designed, manufactured, and programmed their robotic vehicles and controlled them via a smartphone app to race on a competition track,” Copp said.  

Another highlight of the program was a panel of five faculty members who shared about their background, research and own unique academic journeys. Instructors also shared useful skills for time and stress management, as well as career planning.  A student panel consisting of current undergraduate students representing diverse engineering student organizations also shared their experiences at UCI and provided information about their respective clubs and ways to get involved. 

Students also had the chance to interact with guest speakers from academic and student support programs who shared information about resources and services to help students succeed at UCI.   The week was a great opportunity for the students to network and build friendships among themselves as they prepare for life at UCI.

- Natalie Tso