Physics

Internship Opportunities in STEM

It is highly advised for students majoring in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) to obtain internships within the STEM field before graduating college. The ideal time to hold an internship is between 2nd and 3rd year, or 3rd and 4th year of college, so that at least half of the college coursework has been completed. Internships help students get on-the-job experience in different type of STEM careers, which allows students to make more informed career choices, figure out what they like and don't like in a particular career, and make their resume (for employment, graduate school, etc.) more competitive.

The following internships are designed for college students with minimal to no experience in the STEM workforce, and are great places to work and learn. Many of these internships are paid (this is common in STEM fields), and come with paid travel, room and board, and sometimes additional monthly stipends. Many, but not all, of these internships take place over the summer.

Note that all internships are competitive, so it is a good idea to apply to as many as possible to increase your chances of getting accepted. Application deadlines are often December - January, so it is best to start composing your applications early in the fall semester, as it is a time-consuming process.

National Science Foundation (NSF) Internships

Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program

These are research internships for all science disciplines funded on the national level. Each program gives participants a stipend, plus free room and board at universities and science research facilities all across the country. Each location has a separate application process, so students must send application materials directly to the individual institution.

Department of Energy (DOE) internships

Community College Internships (CCI) Program

This federally-funded internship program is located at national laboratories across the country, and is aimed specifically at community college students. This program includes a stipend and housing allowance.

National Institute of Health (NIH)

Community College Summer Enrichment Program

This federally-funded internship program is located at NIH-affiliated college campuses across the country, and is aimed specifically at community college students who are interested in research in the biomedical sciences. While all the research is health-related, this program is not just for biology or premed students: there are opportunities for students in computer science, physics, chemistry, and all other STEM fields. This program includes a stipend.

National Park Service (NPS) internships

Scientists in the Parks

These internships are for students across all STEM disciplines interested in doing scientific research in national parks or other remote natural settings. It has programs designed for students wishing to study a variety of disciplines, including biology, geology, conservation, and more! These internships are paid and include housing.

NASA internships

These internships are for students across all STEM disciplines interested in doing scientific research related to astronomy and earth science. They have programs designed for students in the sciences, as well as computer science, engineering, and more.

Internships in Industry

In STEM, the term "industry" refers to private companies who offer jobs to STEM majors. Internships in industry can be found at the "Career" section of the websites for individual companies. Some local companies also advertise at the LPC Career Center and on the LPC Internship Page (note that not all of the internships listed on this page are STEM-related). Most STEM internships in industry are paid, and the pay varies by company. Companies advertise to a wide variety of college students, so a strong applicant will show how they stand out from other college students; students are advised to talk to their prospective employers in person, to attend career fairs, and to attend events put on by the companies themselves. Networking is key!

Additional Resources to find Internships

The following websites can help you search for additional (paid!) internships in STEM fields.

Pathways to Science for Undergraduates

STEM Opportunities for Undergraduate Students

How to Write a Successful Internship Application

There are many resources on campus at LPC to help with the application process, especially through the Smart Shop Series, the tutorial center, and professors in your STEM classes. Don't hesitate to seek out help for writing a personal statement, composing a resume or CV (curriculum vitae), or learning how to approach instructors for recommendation letters. LPC's Career Center also offers one-on-one resume editing sessions and mock interview appointments. Many of your professors are also happy to give discipline-specific advice for resumes, CVs, and other application materials - just ask!

Hints for recommendation letters: Choose instructors who know you well, like you, and are impressed with your classwork. Asking for letters in person is best, but emails are okay too. Give your instructors a month notice before the application deadline, and send reminders if you haven't heard back from them and the deadline is approaching. Some additional helpful hints may be found here.)