Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. If selected for the internship program, how many of the researchers will I be able to work on during the summer? 

Students will be selected to participate in research projects with one of the listed researchers during the summer. 

2. What if I'm interested in applying for more than one project or researcher? 

Students can apply for consideration for one researcher or for more than one by ranking each project as their first, second, third, fourth and/or fifth choice. 

3. I'm planning to work a 2nd part-time job, have vacation plans, or some other potential conflict. Should I still apply? 

Yes! The internship requires up 35-40 hours weekly, but at the discretion of the supervisor, there can be flexibility for scheduled hours and time off. Applicants and selected students are encouraged to discuss these concerns with the faculty supervisor as soon as possible. 

4. What is required in the application process? 

A complete application includes the following: online application form (see link above), unofficial transcript (applicants should be able to access this at no cost through their student accounts on their institution's student portals), a current resume or CV, and a statement of interest briefly describing why the applicant is interested in completing an internship at the Appalachian Laboratory. Students are also asked to list the name of a faculty member as a reference. It is important that this person knows the applicant and can speak to the applicant's ability to successfully complete the internship.     

5. What happens after I apply? 

The internship application period will remain open until early January. Once the application period closes, internship supervisors listed with the projects will review applications, contact references, and identify applicants to interview. Selected applicants will be contacted for in-person interviews. Following interviews, all applicants will be notified about their status. We estimate this notification will take place in early April. 

6. I participated in the Appalachian Laboratory Undergraduate Internship Program in the past. Am I eligible to apply and participate again?

All current students at the identified institutions are eligible to apply. Those students who have not been selected for participation in the past will receive priority for placement this year.   

7. If I don't apply or am not accepted this year, will the program continue next year? 

The Appalachian Laboratory is committed to fostering the next generation of science through the Appalachian Laboratory Undergraduate Internship Program. The number of positions available each summer depends on the availability of research projects and will be contingent on continued funding. Students not accepted in prior years are encouraged to reapply. 

8. Who do I contact with questions? 

Please contact Rhonda Schwinabart at rschwinabart@umces.edu with any application or internship-related questions.