How to Apply

All applications must include the following materials:

• Fill out and submit an Application Form
• Complete the essay prompts here
• Submit an unofficial academic transcript here
  • Must include your name, courses taken to date, and grades received for each course.

Application Form

All students applying for the MSU PEARL 2023 Summer Internship Program must fill out the Google Form. Applicants who do not complete the form will not be considered.

Essay Prompts

Each applicant must submit their responses to five (5) essay prompts found here. Do not submit these as a separate document or via email. You must submit your responses using this form.

The prompts are:

• What are your goals and career plans? (Suggested 150-200 words)
• What five courses have you taken that will be most relevant to this internship? Briefly explain why you think these courses are relevant? (Suggested 150-200 words)
• Discuss a challenge you have faced in your life and how you overcame it. (Suggested 150-200 words)
• What interests you most about marine and environmental science? (Suggested 150-200 words)
• Is there anything else you would like the selection committee to know about you and your educational background? This could include previous experiences, prior military service, or other challenges you have faced (socioeconomic, first-generation college student, disabilities, etc.) (Suggested 150-200 words)

Academic Transcript

Each applicant must submit an academic transcript as part of their application. The transcripts do not need to be official, but need to clearly indicate the student's name, college or university, coursework taken, and the grade received for each course. Applicants may submit their transcripts here.

Letters of Recommendation

We no longer require letters of recommendation.

Instead, we ask that you submit two references on your application form that can be contacted by the selection committee. These references can be current or previous teachers or professors, mentors, advisors, current or previous managers/bosses, or community leaders. If you are having trouble identifying two references, please contact Amanda Knobloch for assistance.

All application materials must be received by 
11:59 pm (EST) on February 15, 2024

Estimated Timeline

• February 15, 2024 - Applications Due
• March 8, 2024 - Decision Notification to Applicants
• March 22, 2024 - Applicant Acceptance Date