How do I pick my FIRE stream?
We have a comprehensive process during the fall that will allow you to learn about each of our streams, meet the faculty leaders, talk to FIRE Semester 3 students, and get a sense of what the day-to-day looks like with respect to each stream's research mission.
By taking FIRE Semester 1, you will automatically participate in that process and will make your stream selection during spring course enrollment
Does my section of FIRE Semester 1 affect which stream I will join?
The answer is no. Stream selection occurs during the fall semester and we will provide all students complete and total information about that process at the right time.
No matter which section of FIRE Semester 1 you take, you will be eligible to join any FIRE research stream.
Do I have to enroll in FIRE Semester 1?
Yes. If an admitted student does not enroll in FIRE Semester 1 during their orientation, we have to assume they are no longer interested in participating in the program.
Students who do not enroll in FIRE Semester 1 will lose their spot in the program.
Does FIRE Semester 1 (FIRE12)) count for UNIV100?
No. FIRE Semester 1 (FIRE120) does not replace UNIV100. If your academic advisor recommends UNIV100, you will need to register for it separately.
I received an invitation to FIRE but I never responded to it. Am I still in FIRE?
Invitations to FIRE needed to be accepted using MyCoalition by May 1. Contact our Associate Director (ibpage@umd.edu) to discuss potential next steps.
When do I get my FIRE t-shirt?
As soon as possible! Ordinarily, you would get it during orientation. We have explored a few workarounds in light of the current situation: drone delivery, an STL for 3D printing, and teleportation. So far, nothing seems feasible until we are back on campus. We will look for every safe way to get you a FIRE t-shirt this coming Fall semester.
I just learned about FIRE. Is it too late to join?
Please submit an application here. We will be in touch soon to update you on your status.