Applications

I applied to two PhD programs as an undergraduate and got into both with this statement of purpose, tailored for each program. Feel free to use it as a starting point for your own!

Since my 2021 application was funded, I’ve received a lot of questions from potential applicants about the application and process.

My biggest tips are:

• Connect your proposed internship activities with the NSF-funded project being supplemented (e.g., the methods of your DDRIG, the broader impacts of your PI’s grant, etc.)

• When creating the budget, be sure to include transportation costs, including gas or public transportation passes

• Discuss your internship ideas with your PI, NSF program officer, university’s grants office, and potential host institution early in the process. Many PIs and administrators are not familiar with the program or application process

• If you have questions about what types of internships are funded, what can be included in the budget, etc., ask your program officer or the NSF contact for your division in the INTERN Dear Colleague Letter

Read more about my experience here and here. My application can be found here.