Mission Statement
Otis Creatives Institute Pre-Orientation Program is focused on developing an inclusive and affirming campus climate for incoming student participants in an effort to increase student engagement, first- to second-year retention, and degree completion.
Program Goal
Fostering community among student participants by providing holistic support for their personal growth, identity formation, cultural development, and career development to create a stronger sense of belonging within the Otis College community.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will identify challenges faced by creatives with specific identities in their respective industries.
- Students will articulate strategies for creating more inclusive creative spaces informed by the experiences of panelists, guests, speakers, and mentors.
- Students will reflect on their own biases and privileges in relation to the panelists' experiences.
- Students will establish meaningful personal connections.
- Students will leave with a better understanding of their culture, heritage, and identities.
Program Description
The Otis Creatives Institute (OCI) is a unified Pre-Orientation Program where students
can select one of three primary, identity-based communities they wish to connect with
during their five-day immersive experience:
The Black Creatives Institute is designed for Black students who are exploring their creative identities while navigating systems that have not always centered or affirmed them. This program provides a culturally affirming space for students to build community, develop their artistic voice, and strengthen their sense of belonging. This community is open to all students, regardless of identity(ies).
The Latinx Creatives Institute is designed for Latinx students who are navigating their creative journeys while honoring their cultural identities, histories, and lived experiences. This program creates a supportive space for students to build community, explore their creative voice, and gain tools to thrive both academically and professionally. This community is open to all students, regardless of identity(ies).
The QT+ Creatives Institute is for LGBTQIA+ students seeking a safe, affirming, and empowering space to explore their identities and creative expression. This program centers queer and trans voices, experiences, and artistry, fostering community among students who may not always see themselves reflected in creative spaces. This community is open to all students, regardless of identity(ies).
We understand that students’ identities may span multiple communities. To support meaningful connection and engagement, students will have the opportunity to select up to 2 preferred communities; however, each student will be assigned 1 primary community to connect with during the program.
Additionally, students will have the opportunity to self-identify as first-generation* college students, enabling us to provide targeted support while maintaining a cohesive program experience.
*First-Gen: A first-generation college student is a student whose parents or legal guardians have not completed a four-year college/university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the United States. This includes students whose parents completed some college but did not earn a bachelor’s degree, as well as those whose parents hold an associate’s degree but not a bachelor’s degree.
How to Register
If you identify with the experience of a Black, Latinx, Queer, Trans, and/or First-Gen creative student, and you are an incoming Fall 2026 student who would like to participate in this free program, you can register via the link on this page. Registration will be open until July 31, 2026. This program focuses on the experience of QTBIPOC and First-Gen people in the creative industry and is open to all students, regardless of their identity(ies).
Registration will open on February 13, 2026.
Who is Eligible?
Otis Creatives Institute has limited availability, and all new foundation and transfer students are given first priority to attend. This program is also open to continuing students at Otis College, subject to space availability. Confirmation of attendance is provided when students enroll in a payment plan or pay their fall balance. This program is open to all Otis students regardless of background, race, ethnicity, or other protected identities.
Where the Program Will Take Place
The Otis Creatives Institute takes place on campus at Otis College of Art and Design. If you have secured housing in the Residence Hall or Park West for the school year, we will do our best to place you in your academic-year assignment as part of OCI. If you will be commuting during the academic year, you can still live on campus for free during the five-day program; please indicate this on your registration form. Housing is free for all students during OCI.
This program includes some off-campus visits to local businesses and historical locations in Los Angeles, and all transportation is included. It is an immersive, five-day program, with programming from early morning to late evening. Students must participate in all aspects of the program, and are encouraged not to have other commitments on those days.
The program dates are as follows:
- Wednesday, August 19–Sunday, August 23, 2026
- Move-in will happen on Wednesday, August 19
- First-Gen students will move in during the morning window
- Non-First-Gen students will move in during the afternoon window
- Monthly OCI Community Lunch and Check-Ins will happen with OCI alumni and QTBIPOC faculty and staff once per month during the academic year
Program 2026 Tentative Schedule
Wednesday, August 19, Move In and Opening
Thursday, August 20, All About Otis!
Friday, August 21, Speakers and Sessions
Saturday, August 22, LA Day!
Sunday, August 23, Closing and Move Out
Upon successful completion of the program (full participation over five days), all participants will receive the following:
All new foundation and transfer students will receive a peer mentor who will serve as a connection to Otis College and as a support person throughout their first year. These mentors are paid student leaders who are sophomores or above and are present for all five days of the program.
All students will receive $50 in Owl Dollars upon successful completion of the post-program survey. Owl Dollars can be spent in Elaine’s or in the Cafe (both dining locations on campus), or at Graphaids (on-campus art supply store).
This program is completely FREE, including three meals a day and snacks! All interested students must register for the program by July 31, 2026, and will receive more information on the program schedule. Students must be enrolled in a payment plan or have paid their fall balance to attend the program.
Can I Participate Virtually?
All students participating in the Otis Creatives Institute are required to participate in person each day for the full program (five days). If you will be commuting during the academic year, you can still live on campus for free during the five-day program; please indicate this on your registration form. Housing is free for all students during OCI. Each program session will build on the others and provide a comprehensive experience that allows students to build community among themselves while networking with Black creative mentors, including faculty, staff, and continuing students.
The Otis Creatives Institute will also offer social programming in the evenings and during supervised off-campus trips to help students get to know each other in a more casual setting, fostering a sense of belonging within our Otis community. Accommodations will be provided for any student who needs them. Please email ds@otis.edu to inquire specifically about your needs.
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