STEM, Health & Fitness Internships
Congratulations!
You've taken the first step towards exploring exciting opportunities to learn and grow outside the classroom. Here, you'll discover internships, fellowships, and volunteer roles tailored to STEM majors and pathways. Not sure which program suits you best? Drop by the STEM MESA Office (CMS 101) or STEM Counseling Office (CMS 013) and chat with our friendly STEM Intern. They can help you navigate the application process and find the perfect fit for your interests. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us by phone during office hours or via email anytime.
Summer 2025 Research and Internships Opportunities Deadlines
Our team has compiled a carefully curated list of summer opportunities available to community college students. This list includes information on over 60 opportunities you can apply for. Please note that it is not exhaustive, as there may be many more opportunities available across the U.S. For more details, please access our database below:
LAMC - Research and Internship Opportunities Database.xlsx
For your convenience, we have also created a calendar highlighting the application deadlines for the opportunities listed in our database. This will help you plan and complete your applications on time.
Featured Research and Internship Opportunities
NASA Internship Programs
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) paid internships allow high school and college-level students to contribute to the agency’s mission to advance science, technology, aeronautics, and space exploration.
OSTEM internships offer students an opportunity to gain practical work experience while working side-by-side with mentors who are research scientists, engineers, and individuals from many other professions. Internships may be full time or part time; and, they may be on a NASA center or facility, or even working from your home or dorm.
Join our NASA team and gain valuable on-the-job experience, build your resume, and strengthen your career readiness. We offer three sessions annually, so visit our website often for opportunities.
2025 Internship Application Deadlines:
Spring 2025: Aug. 23, 2024
Summer 2025 – Early Decision: Oct. 25, 2024; Final, Feb. 28, 2025
Fall 2025: May 16, 2025
Department of Energy's Community College Internship
The Department of Energy's Community College Internship (CCI) program encourages 2-year college students to enter technical careers by providing training experiences at a Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory.
CCI program interns are provided the opportunity to work under the guidance of scientific and engineering staff on projects that are relevant to the DOE's mission of ensuring America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions
Deadline: January 8, 2025
UCLA Public Health Scholars Training Program
The UCLA Public Health Scholars Training Program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to explore the field of public health through hands-on training, structured workshops, group excursions, and leadership and professional development. Located in Los Angeles, the program offers scholars the opportunity to train at UCLA, to explore public health in one of the most diverse counties in the US, and to experience the city’s vibrant culture. We work with community-based organizations, health systems, and government agencies to offer field placement opportunities for scholars that focus on health equity. |
Click Here to Explore the Opportunity and Apply
Deadline: January 31, 2025
Cal-Bridge Summer
The Cal-Bridge Summer program is designed to allow students from California State Universities and California community colleges to participate in undergraduate research projects for 8-10 weeks in the summer at one of our partner world-class research institutions. Students are paid a stipend; travel and housing expenses (and sometimes meals) are included. Students will work for 8-10 weeks (depending on the site) in the summer with scientists at one of our partner world-class research institutions on projects spanning a variety of STEM disciplines. Selected students will receive a stipend. In addition, participants will be provided with housing and reimbursement for travel from home or campus to the relevant research site. Some sites also provide meals. |
Click Here to Explore the Opportunity and Apply
Deadline: January 31, 2025
Boston University - Physics Research Opportunity (REU)
The Boston University – Physics Research Opportunity (BU-PRO) Program at Boston University is designed to promote access to research opportunities for talented undergraduate students, with particular emphasis on students from community colleges and small four-year colleges who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in research, minority groups, and women. The BU-PRO Program is supported by funds from the National Science Foundation (NSF-REU) and Boston University. Deadline: February 3, 2025 |
UC Santa Barbara Quantum Foundry Internship Program
Deadline: February 9, 2025 |
Research and Internship Opportunities Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A research opportunity typically involves engaging in scholarly or scientific investigations under the guidance of faculty or experienced researchers. It allows students to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field through hands-on research activities, such as conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings.
An internship opportunity, on the other hand, involves gaining practical work experience in a professional setting related to one's field of study or career interests. Internships can be undertaken in various industries and organizations, providing valuable exposure to real-world work environments, skills development, and networking opportunities.
Both research and internship opportunities are valuable experiences that complement academic learning, enhance career readiness, and help students clarify their professional goals through practical application of knowledge and skills gained in educational settings.
Participating in research or internships enhances a community college student's academic and career prospects by providing hands-on experience, developing practical skills, expanding professional networks, and strengthening applications for transfer or employment opportunities.
Yes, you can apply to research or internship opportunities even if you have no prior experience. Many programs and positions are designed to provide learning opportunities for students at various stages of their academic journey, including those with limited or no professional experience. Employers and Universities often seek students who demonstrate enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and relevant coursework or skills. Tailoring your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities can strengthen your application.
Internships and research opportunities for community college students can vary in terms of compensation. Some may offer competitive wages, stipends, or academic credit, while others may be unpaid. It's important to research and consider the financial implications of each opportunity.
It's ideal to start looking for internships or research opportunities several months in advance, typically at least 6-12 months before you plan to begin your internship or research position. This timeline allows you to explore your options, prepare application materials, seek letter of recommendations, and meet all deadlines.
Traditionally, Fall semester is a great starting point to work on your resume, personal statement, and gather all other application materials such as letter of recommendations and transcripts. Most research and internship opportunities are due between January - March.
Yes, community college students can often participate in research opportunities at four-year institutions through collaborative programs or partnerships. These opportunities allow students to work alongside faculty and peers in conducting research projects that align with their academic interests.
Internships and research experiences provide invaluable insights and practical skills that complement classroom learning. They enhance your resume, differentiate you in the job market or transfer application process, clarify career aspirations, and often lead to valuable mentorship and networking opportunities within your chosen field.
Research and Internship Opportunity Tool Kit
Are you interested in applying for STEM internship and research opportunities? The STEM MESA Program is here to help! Whether you need assistance with application materials or guidance through the application process, we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Feel free to reach out to us for:
- Reviewing application materials
- Understanding application requirements
- Tailoring your resume and cover letter
- Preparing for interviews
Don't hesitate to visit us in CMS 101 or contact us at 818-833-3326 with any questions or to schedule an appointment. We're excited to help you succeed in pursuing your STEM aspirations!
- Check internship requirements thoroughly.
- Note deadlines and submit all necessary documents on time.
- Allocate sufficient time for the application process.
- Start early to gather and complete all required components.
- Use a professional email address; create one if needed.
- Provide current contact details.
- Proofread all application information before submission.
- Verify completeness of every section of the application.
- Seek feedback on your application materials.
Contact the STEM MESA Program for assistance with your application.
A strong and well-written resume summarizes your skills and experience clearly and shows why you're a good fit for the position. It's important to make sure your resume is easy to read and well-organized. Customizing your resume for each job you apply to can make a big difference in getting noticed by employers.
Formatting tips:
- Use a clean and professional font, such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, in size 10-12.
- Ensure consistent formatting throughout, including headings, bullet points, and text alignment.
- Organize sections logically: start with contact information, followed by a summary or objective statement, education, work experience, skills, research projects (if any), related coursework, or volunteer experience.
- Use bullet points to list responsibilities and achievements under each job or educational experience for clarity and easy reading.
- Keep your resume to one page.
- Use white space effectively to make your resume visually appealing and easy to navigate.
- Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting across different devices and systems.
Be sure to revise it, edit, and update your resume before sending it out.
- Introduce yourself and state the position you are applying for.
- Highlight your relevant skills and qualifications that match the job description.
- Share specific examples of past achievements or experiences that demonstrate your abilities.
- Explain why you are interested in the company or organization.
- Express enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to their team.
- Mention any additional information not covered in your resume that makes you a strong candidate.
- Keep it short and specific. Do not repeat your resume.
- Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself, stating your name and current enrollment at the community college.
- Academic Background: Briefly mention your academic program, year of study, and any relevant coursework or academic achievements.
- Interest in Research: Express your keen interest in gaining research experience and explain why you are passionate about this field.
- Relevant Skills and Experiences: Highlight any skills, coursework, or experiences (such as lab work, projects, or coursework) that have prepared you for research.
- Motivation: Discuss what motivates you to pursue research and internship opportunities at the community college level.
- Career Goals: Share your career aspirations and explain how participating in research and internships aligns with these goals.
- Previous Experience: If applicable, mention any previous research experiences, internships, or relevant activities and what you learned from them.
- Contribution: Explain how you envision contributing to the research community at the community college.
- Closing Statement: Conclude by summarizing your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your readiness to actively engage in research and internship activities.
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)
NSF funds numerous research opportunities for undergraduate students through its REU Sites program. An REU Site comprises a group of approximately ten undergraduates who participate in the research programs of the host institution. Each student is assigned to a specific research project and collaborates closely with faculty and other researchers. Students receive stipends and, in many cases, assistance with housing and travel expenses. Undergraduate students supported by NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its territories. REU Sites may be located in the US or abroad.
To explore these opportunities, visit the webpage Search for an REU Site where you can browse opportunities in various subject areas supported by different NSF units. You can also use keywords to find sites in specific research areas or with particular features, such as location.
For information and application materials, students should contact the individual sites directly. NSF does not provide application materials nor select student participants. Each site lists a contact person and their information.
LAMC - Research and Internship Opportunities Database.
This resource is regularly updated to provide current information on various opportunities available each year for community college students. Explore the latest listings to find exciting prospects in your field of interest.
Volunteering Opportunities
Contact Our STEM Team
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Center for Math & Sciences (CMS) 013
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Center for Math & Sciences (CMS) 101
Phone: (818) 833-3326
Email: lamc-@email
STEM Center
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Center for Math & Sciences (CMS) 014
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