Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the application process and expectations for the Department of Energy (DoE) Summer Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI) and related programs. Participants share their experiences, anxieties, and timelines regarding acceptance notifications from various laboratories.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Meta-discussion
Main Points Raised
- Some participants inquire about the timeline for acceptance notifications, noting that experiences vary by laboratory.
- One participant mentions receiving an acceptance notification on February 20th from Fermilab the previous year, suggesting a possible pattern for this year.
- Another participant expresses anxiety over the application status, which remains "pending review," and checks it frequently.
- There is discussion about whether applicants are notified of rejections, with some assuming that the application status will be updated online.
- Some participants speculate on the review process, questioning whether the DoE reviews applications before sending them to host labs.
- Several participants share their acceptance news, with one confirming acceptance at Princeton Plasma Physics Lab and another at Fermilab, discussing the value of different internship experiences.
- Concerns are raised about the differences between SULI and Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs), with some suggesting that the value may depend on individual circumstances and the specific opportunities offered.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of views on the application process, acceptance timelines, and the value of different internship programs. There is no consensus on the specifics of the review process or the notification timeline, indicating multiple competing views remain.
Contextual Notes
Participants mention varying experiences with application statuses and acceptance notifications, highlighting the lack of a standardized process across different labs. Some express uncertainty about whether the DoE reviews applications before they are sent to host labs.
Who May Find This Useful
Students applying for summer internships in STEM fields, particularly those interested in the DoE SULI program or similar opportunities, may find this discussion relevant.