FIRE Spring 2021 Cluster & Stream Selection Guide

Hello FIRE Students,

I hope that you are having a good semester. We fully recognize that remote instruction is a real challenge we hope that you are getting the support you need to succeed. Please check our dedicated support page to ensure you are using every UMD resource possible to support your success this semester.

We are excited that you are about to begin the process of selecting your FIRE cluster and stream to take the next step in your research training and experience with FIRE next semester.

We have assembled a new PDF guide to help you with this process (FIRE Semester 1 Fall 2020 Cluster & Stream Selection Guide). Please take the time to study it and visit all of the recommended resources in your decision-making process.

Many issues and questions are addressed in this guide:

• What do we know about FIRE courses for Spring 2021?

• Will FIRE research environments be available for Spring 2021?

• What do we mean by blended courses?

• Will you have the option to continue with FIRE and take FIRE Semester 2 completely remotely if I am not on campus for Spring 2021?

• How do you choose a FIRE cluster and stream for Spring 2021?

• How can I use Slack to learn more about FIRE clusters and streams?

• How does The FIRE Summit relate to and support cluster and stream selection?

• Does my cluster and stream choice need to align with my major?

• Will I be able to join a stream within my chosen FIRE cluster?

• Will I be able to join a specific stream?

Finally, please plan to attend The FIRE Summit this Monday, November 16 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This event is being built with you in mind.

Sincerely,

Patrick

Patrick Killion

Director of Discovery-Based Learning​

Office of the Senior Vice President and Provost

University of Maryland