FAQ
Q: Who should apply?
A: If you're interested in learning about the biological/physical sciences as related to radiation-research and have a GPA>3.2, there is no better place to experience the excitement of scientific discovery and innovation than the University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine. After your sophomore or junior year in college is an ideal time to determine how biomedical research could play a part in your future.
Q: I am interested in your program but have already graduated college, may I apply?
A: Our program is for current undergraduate students who have just completed their sophomore or junior years only. If you have graduated already, we are unable to accept you into the program.
Q: May I participate in the program as a volunteer?
A: We cannot accept volunteers.
Q: Can I apply via e-mail?
A: Electronic application submissions are encouraged. Please ensure that all submitted documents are in Word (.doc) or PDF format. Letters of recommendation are acceptable only if received directly from that person's email address.
Q: How many letters of recommendation do I need?
A: Two letters are required and should be from faculty members in your field of study who can attest to your science academics, research experiences, work ethic, and future goals.
Q: How will I know when my application has been received in its entirety?
A: You will receive an e-mail confirmation once your application has completely arrived, including recommendation letters. Contact supers@pennmedicine.upenn.edu for inquiries regarding the status of your application.
Q: Can I choose my mentor/project/lab?
A: We will do our best to match each student with a lab that most closely aligns with his or her area of interest. If you have specific mentor in mind, you should add this to your application.
Q: Do I need to locate my own housing?
A: No, you will be given a room in a dorm located on campus. Students can move in the day prior to the start of the program and move out on the end date of the program.
Q: Are meals included in the program?
A: Meals are not included. However, there are times when the program provides food. There is also an option for you to directly purchase a meal plan at your own expense through Hospitality Services. Hospitality services will send you a registration link where you can make a credit card payment for the meal plan of your choice. Once they receive confirmation of the plan you'd like to enroll in, they'll load the plan onto your PennCard and bill appropriately.
Q: Is this a paid internship?
A: There is around $4,000 subsistence that will be paid to you as a prize/award, which are subject to 30% federal withholding on the payment. Stipends are distributed at the end of June and end of July (payment is split in half). Students enrolled in the program will receive a 1099-MISC form (since it’s more than $600). We recommend you put money aside for taxes.
Q: What about recreational activities?
A: Students can access the Department of Recreations Facilities for a fee for the duration of the program. This includes access to both Gyms on campus, the pool and tennis facilities. Other recreational activities may be available for a nominal cost per outing.
Q: What is the weather like in Philadelphia?
A: Philadelphia summers are known to be hot and humid. Expect high tempertures, rain storms and high humidity levels.
Q. Is there dress code that needs to be followed?
A: There are dress codes that have to be followed while working in the labs. Long pants, skirts, or dress that covers the legs are required, along with closed toed shoes.