Leadership through Engineering Academic Diversity

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between APEX and SPEED?

A: APEX is a university program for all multicultural students across all colleges. SPEED is designed to prepare students for the academic rigors of engineering and professional development.

Q: When should I arrive?

A: Students should arrive the weekend prior to the beginning day of the program. A welcome picnic for all students in the SPEED program and their families is held the day before the first day of the program.

Q: Is it required to participate for the whole program?

A: Yes it is but if emergencies or family events occur we can be flexible on attendance. However, students are responsible for the content covered in their classes and completing all homework assignments.

Q: Will I earn college credit in the program?

A: Because our courses are not part of the courses offered by the university, it is not possible to earn credit by participating in the program. Many students end up testing out of pre-requisite courses as a result of the SPEED program.

Q: What will I gain if I chose to participate?

A: You will gain the ability to process information faster, develop an understanding of how to apply effective problem solving techniques, establish relationships with peers, faculty, and staff, tour industry plants, and develop leadership skills.

Q: What expenses should I be prepared for?

A: Traveling to and from Ames during the program, school supplies, and personal items are are your responsibility.

Q: What personal and professional opportunities will be available for me?

A: There will be a variety of personal and professional development opportunities for SPEED participants ranging from team building activities, social events, department lab demonstrations, time management workshops, problem solving activities, and industrial field trips.

Q: Where will I live?

A: You will live in a SPEED designated residence hall. Student Counselors will live on the same floor to help you adjust to college life and the SPEED program. They will also assist during homework sessions.

Q: How many roommates will I get?

A: There will be two students per room.

Q: How will male/female be divided?

A: Participants will live on a co-ed floor in the assigned residence hall for SPEED. However, students will have same gender roommates.

Q: Can I go home during the weekends?

A: Unless there are emergencies or family events, students will be discouraged from going home on weekends because there will be academic and networking activities taking place over the weekends.

Q: Do I still need to go to ISU orientation?

A: Yes. All SPEED participants are required to attend orientation for the College of Engineering. Important information about the campus and your college is shared during this event. In addition, placement exams, which help determine which courses you will take during your freshmen year, are taken during orientation. Finally, during ISU Orientation you will also meet your academic advisor, prepare your fall class schedule, create an ISU e-mail account, and get an ISU student ID card.

Q: Can I bring my car for the summer?

A:  Yes. Parking costs are your responsibity. Transportation will be provided for all students as necessary and students will receive a bus pass to get around the City of Ames as needed. Additionally, transportation to all sponsored weekend activities will be provided by SPEED.

Q: Is transportation provided to and from the airport/bus station?

A:  SPEED assists out-of-state students by providing a shuttle service from the airport/bus station.

Q: Can I transition into my residence hall assignment?

A: Yes. Once the program concludes, SPEED participants will have the opportunity to transition into their residence hall assignment, but the cost is not covered under the SPEED program.

Q: Whom do I contact for more information?
A: You can contact Engineering Diversity Affairs if you need more information or have more questions regarding the program. Please use the contact us link, write, email or call:

Summer Program for Enhancing Engineering Development (SPEED)
LEAD Program – College of Engineering
Iowa State University
101 Marston Hall
Ames, IA 50011-2151
Phone: 515.294.9802
Fax: 515.294.9273
Email: leadprogramiastate.edu