r/stanford

Odd Historical Question

Hello Stanford! I'm writing a story set in 1999 in and around Palo Alto about computer hackers. The story is that they need to steal something and pin the blame on someone else.

Does anyone know if there was ever a cool display of the original ARPANET components, especially back then?

Are there any pictures or does anyone know where I could find out more (or if there's a better place to ask around)?

Thanks!

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u/STRiPESandShades — 1 day ago
▲ 28 r/stanford+5 crossposts

Anyone in the Peninsula / South Bay interested in a small pop harmony singing group?

I’ve been looking for something like Pentatonix-style group singing (modern pop songs, layered harmonies, vocal arrangements), but most local options seem to be either traditional choir or performance-heavy a cappella.

I’m hoping to find a few people (maybe 4–8?) who enjoy singing and would be interested in casually meeting to harmonize on pop / indie / R&B songs.

What I’m imagining:
Small group (not a huge choir)
Strong focus on harmonies / blend
Pop songs and modern arrangements
No choreography required 😅
Low-pressure, but people who care about sounding good
Maybe occasional performances if there’s interest
Skill level: ideally people who can generally hold pitch / harmony, but you definitely don’t need to be a professional singer.

Personally, I love artists like Billie Eilish, Harry Styles, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, SZA, Bruno Mars, etc., but open to all kinds of songs.

I’m in my mid-20s and would especially love meeting other young professionals / grad students. Also, in the Palo Alto / Stanford area, but open to anywhere in the Peninsula / South Bay. I’m also hoping this becomes a fun recurring social thing, not just rehearsals.

Comment or DM if this sounds fun!

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u/blopbloppo — 2 days ago

best haircuts around campus?

What’s good yall. Visiting for the summer and am a white dude with relatively straight hair who wants a good cut. Where should I go? Also I usually do millennial Asians they get me right

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u/burnerX6-likeboredom — 2 days ago

Grad Student Housing Suggestions?

Hi everyone! I will be starting my PhD at Stanford this fall and currently live in Oakland. I'm considering moving to graduate housing for the first 1–2 years to make my commute a bit more manageable.

Ideally, I'd be looking for a one-bedroom, but I noticed those don't appear to be an option for students without a live-in partner. I was wondering if anyone has navigated a similar situation or knows whether there are any exceptions, waitlists, or alternative housing options for single graduate students who are hoping to live alone. I have no issue paying more since I already have furniture, and have some external funding/savings so I'm not exactly constrained to the typical grad student budget.

I'd also love to hear from anyone who made a longer commute versus moving closer to campus—as I try to determine whether this is worth the move. Any advice or experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

EDIT: Since getting an one bedroom from Stanford grad housing seems unlikely -- if anyone has any suggestions for off-campus properties that have one-bedrooms for students, pls feel free to leave them below!

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u/yagirlll_ — 3 days ago

Spanish Language Placement Questions

I have studied Spanish for about 2 years and I know the following tenses:
- present, preterite, imperfect (barely), subjunctive (barely), commands

I have a decent vocabulary of basic things such as outdoors, marketplace, and reflexive actions, but I struggle with making sentences and speaking on the go.

Based on this, what year would I place on the placement test. Thanks!

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u/CramMode — 3 days ago
▲ 16 r/stanford+2 crossposts

Recruiting Women With Heavy Menstrual Bleeding for a Stanford Research Study (Compensation Available)

Researchers at Stanford University are conducting a study to better understand heavy menstrual bleeding by examining blood flow in the uterine artery using non-invasive ultrasound. (IRB approved)

The goal of this research is to improve our understanding of the amount of menstrual blood loss in different people.

Study procedures include:

  • Tracking menstrual blood loss during one menstrual cycle
  • Three non-invasive abdominal ultrasound examinations
  • Completion of menstrual health questionnaires
  • A small blood sample collected as part of the research

Compensation:
Participants who complete the study may receive compensation of up to $500.

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are 18–55 years old
  • Experience heavy menstrual bleeding, such as:
    • Needing to change pads or tampons every 1–2 hours
    • Waking at night to change menstrual products
    • Periods lasting longer than 7 days
    • Passing large blood clots
    • Have been diagnosed with or suspect heavy menstrual bleeding

The study involves three in-person visits to Stanford University during one menstrual cycle.

If you are interested in learning more or would like to determine whether you may be eligible, please complete our screening form: https://forms.gle/F3uLutdtnXrY7ak69

https://preview.redd.it/ei7wvm8wfjah1.png?width=1086&format=png&auto=webp&s=9107172b62c817938797ea87b0a028def2e8c790

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u/PersonWomanManCamTV — 3 days ago

symsys + econ major, design minor

how feasible is the major combo above? i still have time before i need to declare, and am pretty indecisive about what i want to do in the future. i’m thinking that this combo would give me both good quantitative/technical and critical thinking skills while having some overlapping classes (symsys/design). i would appreciate any advice from upperclassman! thank you!

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u/PutridComplaint1057 — 5 days ago

Am I not getting promoted to “Manager” because I don’t have a masters?

As the headline says, am I not getting promoted to a manager title as a staff member at Stanford bc I don’t have a masters? I’ve been at my current role for 4 years now and have tried countless times to apply to other centers as manager roles come up but never even get a phone interview. I’ve even asked my current center for the title promotion and they gave me a round about answer. I’ve never even had a small negative review from current leadership and have truly glowing annual reviews. I have 3 years experience prior to this job so my years of experience fit the requirement. I’ve reworked my resume tirelessly and I don’t think that’s it after it was reviewed by many people telling me it’s solid. After going through other managers profiles, the only difference is they have a masters degree. There’s no one to even ask for feedback anymore when rejection emails are coming from unattended boxes. Getting another job in the Bay Area right now feels hopeless but I feel like I’m going to be stuck in this position if I don’t advance soon.

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u/Illustrious_Pack_38 — 6 days ago

Prospective Student: Inquiring about MD + PhD (MoM) Program in Biomedical Data Science

Hi everyone,

I am a physician and data scientist currently in the US for a clinical observership. I am planning to apply to the Biomedical Data Science PhD program, specifically for the Master of Medicine (MoM) dual-degree track for international medical graduates.

I am hoping to get some insights from current students or alumni. I have a few specific questions about the program structure and experience:

  1. For students who join this dual program, what has the experience been like? Are you treated as part of the PhD cohort from the start, or does the MoM year feel separate? I am particularly interested in how the logistics of the clinical year work and how students navigate the transition back into a full-time research focus afterwards.

  2. The website lists prerequisites, but I’m curious to hear from someone who has been through the process. How strictly are the prerequisite courses in CS, math, and biology evaluated, especially for someone with a non-traditional background like a medical degree? Are there opportunities to take prerequisite courses after admission if you're accepted with a conditional status?

  3. I understand that for the DBDS PhD, the primary focus is on research and finding a good faculty match. How did you approach the process of finding a lab and a PI? Is it better to reach out to professors before applying, or is that something that happens more after you are admitted to the program?

  4. Are there any particular resources or events at Stanford that have been most helpful for your development as a biomedical data scientist? For example, I heard about the "Collaboration and Careers Forum" and am curious if students find events like these valuable for building connections or exploring future career paths.

Thank you for your time and any advice you can offer. I understand admissions is very competitive, and I am trying to learn as much as possible about what it's actually like to be a student in the program.

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u/blackcat_bc — 5 days ago

Research for someone who isn’t affiliated with Stanford (or any school)

I have this thirst for academic research in a field (quantitative biomedical imaging) that I dont currently work in (but have extensive academic research experience in). However, I’m not a student any more, and I’ve been told that at least in the SOM labs, it’s impossible to get anything without leaving my job and committing to a full time engagement.

I’m wondering if there’s still a way for me to be involved in academic research? Has anyone heard of similar engagements before?

Some notes: I just graduated with my masters, so I’m not in the market to pursue a phd or sabbatical at the moment! I’m really passionate about this field, but work in a different but parallel industry at the moment. I’m just looking to satiate my curiosity and maybe make some cool contributions in the process :)

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u/CricketThanksgiving — 6 days ago

Bike Safety

Hi Everyone! I am a new grad student starting at Stanford. I noticed that biking seems to be the preferred mode of transportation and there are bikes everywhere.

Is it safe to leave a bike locked for a few hours or overnight on campus or in Escondido Village?

Are there any bike locks that you would recommend?

Thank you so much for any help you can give!

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u/Mindless-Draft8702 — 6 days ago

I'm a visiting undergrad trying to do research with a stanford prof. Do I have to pay?

Visiting undergrad in the sense I'm a US resident, I'm in the Bay, attend a 4 year college, but not taking any classes (Not international in need of housing or tuition assistance).

I looked into the visiting scholar programs and just realized there are additional fees. I already told the professor I’d be willing to work unpaid, but if I actually have to pay out of pocket to do it, that’s a lot harder to justify. I also do not want to push that expense onto the professor, since they may not be willing or able to cover it.

My main concern is whether I would need official affiliation just to get basic things like building access or an ID card. Does anyone have experience with this?

TLDR: Is there any way to be a non-Stanford visiting researcher and still get some level of building access without having to go through a program with fees?

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u/ExcitementNo9746 — 6 days ago

how essential are bikes here

Hi, I'm an incoming freshman at stanford this year. I just wanted to know... how essential is biking in getting around conveniently? I haven't ridden one since I was five, i just tried to learn and honestly learning is really challenging being 18 lol. I don't know if I'll be able to learn in time for class.

could someone reasonably get around campus without learning how to ride a bike? Or are there other alternatives that people use to get around besides them? Or should I just suck it up and try to learn lol

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u/Http_Juusstic — 11 days ago

Can't access website

Hi all. I don't go to Stanford but I tried to go to stanford.edu and I'm blocked. It says access denied. Do y'all have any idea why? I sent a nice email to President Levin I told him I liked his speech at the commencement, now I'm blocked.

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u/cyslittlegirl — 9 days ago

Can I still join student clubs/organizations after graduation?

I am a Master graduate of 2025 and have realized that the field I am currently working in is not my true passion. Since I am still in the Bay Area, I wonder if I can still join some student clubs at Stanford as an alumnus. I was a researcher working in biomedical research, but I hope to pursue a career in business or finance or consulting in the future. Any suggestions?

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u/gzy1sMe — 9 days ago

How to prepare for Chemistry

Hi everyone,

I'm a recent ‘30 admit and I plan on taking general chemistry during my first quarter at Stanford. I was hoping for some advice for things I can do over the summer to prepare for the rigor next quarter. I was js going to finish reviewing AP Chem before September. Thank you everyone!

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u/Plus-Barnacle-6679 — 10 days ago

Best area near Stanford for postdoc couple

Hi,

I have a question and would be grateful for your advice. We’re a couple relocating from Europe for my husband’s Stanford postdoc. I may not be able to work for the first 1–4 months, so we need to be realistic about rent.

For postdoc couples, would you recommend Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, Mountain View, or somewhere else? Any tips for furnished sublets or realistic rent would be appreciated. We’re looking for a place with reasonable access to Stanford, ideally somewhat walkable or transit-friendly, and preferably furnished/semi-furnished.

Thank you.

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u/Particular_Cut_4042 — 13 days ago

Anyone know of MD that gained admission to CS Masters @ Stanford?

Very niche question/request I know. I am aware of the Biomedical Data Science program but I wonder if anyone knows of an MD that didn't follow the traditional clinical route at Stanford and instead chose to pursue a CS Masters? I know some are joint faculty between the BMDS program and CS program which is why I asked.

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u/TEKNOPARADOX — 12 days ago

Oak Creek vs. On campus 2b2b for 1st year PhD student

hi, incoming 1st year PhD student, wondering why anyone would choose the on-campus 2b2b options (EV Kennedy premium 2b2b, EVGR premium 2b2b) when the Oak Creek 2b2b is around the same price AND has a swimming pool, hot tub, and theater? And is still relatively the same distance from central campus as the EV buildings?

Am I missing something? Is it a bad idea to choose Oak Creek as my top choice (esp since I wouldn't be able to renew for next year)?

Like would I be at a severe disadvantage in priority for decent on-campus housing next year if I choose Oak Creek my first year?

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u/hanseoulochoi — 11 days ago