MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Abstract: University undergraduates are frequently reminded of the importance of securing an internship prior to graduation (Hansen, n.d.); however, research experience for biomedical students is of even greater importance because many of the skills required for success in the field are not taught in the classroom (Webb, 2007). Many undergraduate biology students feel unprepared to apply for and successfully complete an internship, particularly with increasing competition in the field of biomedical research. This guide is written to dissect the process of applying into manageable steps, and boost the confidence of students, specifically targeting biology students at the University of Maryland. The guide first provides evidence to convince the reader of the importance of having at least one research internship in college. It then transitions to describing the types of research internships available, primarily comparing those in the federal agencies with those in private biotech companies. Next, the timeline for each category of internship is laid out, followed by a section informing the reader how to navigate example agency and private sites. Additional tips for navigating private company websites to find internship availabilities is also incorporated. Lastly, the guide provides resources for securing an internship, including suggestions for local internships in the College Park area. Brief notes on writing successful resumes and cover letters, and interviewing both on the phone and in person, follow. The guide closes with a personal reflection on the author’s experience successfully applying for and completing four research internships prior to entering her junior year of college.

Reader’s Profile: An uncertain undergraduate who lacks the confidence and knowledge to apply for an internship due to inadequate preparation by his/her university. Or, someone who has a high GPA and doesn’t think he/she needs an internship (overly confident A-student)

WC: 250
Voice: Third person, personable

Reader’s Response: A research internship would definitely benefit me. I now know the types of internships available, and how far in advance I should apply. I have the tools to navigate different internship sites and know how to prepare for interviews. I trust the guide because the author used these strategies and was abundantly successful.

R, I think your focus on skills is important. In the early part of the document, you may want to list lab or field skills important to acquire. To start:

innoculating/plating/counting microbes
PCR
gel electrophoresis
pipetting
sterile technique
solutions/buffers making to specifications

????

Also, this article is interesting, as it talks about student-generated professionalism:
http://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2010/10/expand-your-professional-skills-training

What about some recreational activities: clubs on brewing, fermentation, beekeeping.....


http://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2010/10/expand-your-professional-skills-training