FAQ

Q: My school doesn’t end in time for the summer session start date. Can I start late?

A: We have a “late start” date for participants who can’t start on the first day for academic reasons. This later date is only for participants whose school’s term ends later than the beginning of the program.

Q: Can current seniors apply?

A: Yes, the program is open to anyone enrolled as an undergraduate student at a minority serving institution. However, all accepted trainees must commit to participating in both the full program.

Q: Can I take classes while participating in a program?

A: Students are expected to be enrolled full time an undergraduate program at a Minority Serving Institution (MSI) during the fall and spring semesters and will be able to participate in the program virtually. During the summer, trainees are expected to work full time on the traineeship program are required to be onsite at Berkeley Lab or San José State University during that time.

Q. Can I work another internship while participating in the program?

A: During the summer term, students are expected to work 40 hours per week onsite at Berkeley Lab or San José State University for this traineeship program.

Q: I don’t have health insurance. Can I participate if I get health insurance by the start of the program?

A: Yes. You must have current health insurance coverage while participating in the program.

Q: Can I get my housing supplement in advance of my arrival so I can put a deposit on my housing?

A: No.

Q: Is there a dress code?

A: The Lab is a fairly casual atmosphere; often jeans are the norm. Lab geography dictates that you wear comfortable shoes (it’s a bit hilly). If you are working in a lab you will, of course, dress appropriately: long pants, closed-toe shoes, etc. You can contact your mentor for suggestions specific to your work site. There is one public event (a poster session) for which you may wish to wear business attire.

Q: I will turn 18 one week after the program starts. Am I eligible to participate?

A: No. Participants must be 18 years of age by the start of the program.

Q: Can I miss a couple of days during the program for vacation?

A: No. Participants are required to attend the entire program and not take any time off.

Q: Am I allowed to drive and park onsite?

A: No. Parking permits will not be issued to participants. On the first day of the program, you will have access to the Lab’s shuttle service. Visit the Lab’s shuttle bus page for more information.