- Las Positas College
- Physics
- Internships
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
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
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)
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
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.
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.)
For more information please contact:
Robin Rehagen
Faculty
925.424.1395
rrehagen@laspositascollege.edu
Jennifer Siders
Faculty
925.424.1391
jsiders@laspositascollege.edu
William Kossow
Lab Technician
925.424.1339
wkossow@laspositascollege.edu