Helpful Hints from Students and Alumnae

From Laura DeLorenzo ‘10, on NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) and NASA Undergraduate Student Research Program (USRP) (ppt)

From Kristen Klepac ‘10, on NIH Summer Internship Program (SIP) (ppt)

From Kate Strayer-Benton ‘05, Tips to National Institutes of Health Internship Success

1. Think about: What interests you?
   Read through the descriptions of labs and branches online.
   There are lots of institutes!
   Make a list of 5 (or 10 or more) positions that most reflect your research goals.
2. Visit the master website:
   If you are going for the traditional summer positions, visit here.
3. What do you say to the research lab?
   They will want a cover letter and resume.
   Include in your cover letter your research interests and experience.
   Be prepared to provide a transcript, a letter of good standing, and references.
4. How long do you wait?
   The general rule in internship/job searching: Follow up!
   Blitz is not always the answer. Pick up the phone!
5. Talk to current IRTAs!
   Not all labs are the same: Find out more about the group and what you will do!
6. Take your pick!
   Choose the opportunity that best fits your research interests and/or personal preference