CALIT2 | Make A Difference Opportunity (MADO) Program

The Make A Difference Opportunity (MADO) program provides a unique opportunity for undergraduate and graduate UCI students to gain experience at the workplace. We match students with a local business for a short-term project (5 months – during winter and spring quarters). Students benefit by getting hands-on experience, mentorship from their industry supervisor, and a $5,000 stipend from CalIT2. Companies benefit from fresh ideas, access to talented UCI students, and from the corresponding recruitment and collaboration opportunities. Together, we can train the workforce of the future and meet the needs of our local industry and beyond.

This is the 4th year of CALIT2’s MADO Program. In the past, MADO has successfully engaged with, and placed students in, a range of local businesses and non-profit organizations. See past projects and presentations. For this year’s call, we would like to emphasize the “IT” in CalIT2 and prioritize projects related to: (1) information technology, including but not limited to AI, robotics, hardware and software, and other priority areas listed in the 2026 application forms; (2) CalIT2 residents, CalIT2 industry partners, and entities interested in opportunities to engage with CalIT2.

The CALIT2 2026 MADO Team includes: Sergio Gago-Masague (faculty lead), Jennifer Garizi (staff lead), Athina Markopoulou (CALIT2 director), and Kyle Batucal (supporting staff). You can reach us at calit2@uci.edu.

MADO is generously supported by the University of California, Office of the President. 

Applications

Applications from companies and students are being accepted on a rolling basis. You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible for maximum consideration.

• For Businesses and Mentors

  Thank you for your interest in the Make a Difference Opportunity (MADO) program. Together we hope to work towards developing and establishing a vibrant and engaging workforce for the businesses in the region. This opportunity will allow your business to work directly with your potential employee(s) of the future.

  You can propose a project and become a mentor. We are currently accepting applications until 10/22/2025. To ensure your project proposal is considered for review before project spots fill up, please submit your application form as soon as possible.

  PROJECT APPLICATIONFLYER FOR BUSINESSES




• For UCI Students

  Students must meet the following requirements to apply for the MADO Program:

  • Be enrolled as full-time, undergraduate or graduate, UCI student for the duration of the program
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Must have U.S. Citizenship, Green Card, or the appropriate visa (CPT eligbility critiera)
  • Must not be part of a Self-Supporting Graduate Degree Programs
  • Must not be part of a DCE Graduate Program

  Student applications will be open between October 27th to November 21st. The link to the student application will be posted here.

FAQs

• What is the time commitment?

  This is a 5 month long commitment from January to June 2026. Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on their project.




• How are the students funded?

  Students will receive a stipend of $5000 from CALIT2, paid throughout the project period.




• I am an international student, can I apply?

  International students require Curricular Pratical Training approval. First year international students are not eligible for this. For more information, please go to the UCI International Center.

Contacts

For questions, please email calit2@uci.edu.