Multicultural Summer Institute

Established in 1987, the Multicultural Summer Institute (MSI) at Occidental College is a four-week academic, residential program for 30 incoming first-year students interested in the power of academic study for social change. MSI centers first-generation and historically underrepresented students in liberal arts colleges. The signature program features a team taught 4-unit course complemented by co-curricular Los Angeles community experiences focused on intergroup dialogues and cultural humility. MSI’s academic program challenges students to develop critical thinking, close reading, analytical writing and communication skills while the co-curricular program builds students’ leadership skills, campus integration, and introduction to the rich resources of Los Angeles.

MSI embodies the College’s investment in its Mission and Equity and Justice Agenda by supporting intellectual fellowship and community among a diverse group of incoming emergent student leaders. MSI students build faculty and staff support networks, sharpen their academic and communication skills, and make lasting friendships before the start of the academic year. Upon completion of MSI, students earn 4 credits toward their degree and fulfill either the U.S. Diversity or Global Connections component of Occidental’s Core requirements.