Program Information

Science 
Undergraduate 
L
aboratory 
I
nternships
May 28 - August 2, 2013

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Welcome to the 2013 SULI Program!
Ames Laboratory, Iowa State University

Steve Karsjen, karsjen@ameslab.gov
Deb Samuelson, debsam@ameslab.gov

 
Getting Started

Our program begins Tuesday, May 28, 2013, and runs through Friday, August 2, 2013. Each student will be paired with an Ames Laboratory/Iowa State University scientist/mentor for their internship; however, students should also expect to work closely with graduate students. Our program is 10 weeks in length to allow interns sufficient time to write papers for submission to peer-reviewed journals, as suggested by mentors. Each student will also be required to prepare many other assignments.  You will be required under the SULI program to make an oral or poster presentation on the outcome of your research activities, complete a 1500-3000 word research project report, a general audience abstract, and a one-page peer review of another SULI intern’s talk or poster prior to the end of the program. Go to this address for additional information: 
http://science.energy.gov/~/media/wdts/suli/pdf/2013_SULI_Deliverables_final.pdf.

Calendar 
While your internship will naturally revolve around your work in the research laboratory, there will be other opportunities to expand your scientific knowledge through tours and presentations. As details for these events are finalized they will be added to the Summer calendar. Students will also meet with the internship coordinator once each week to discuss any issues related to their internship. Check calendar (above) for dates and meeting locations. Deadlines for meeting deliverables will also be indicated on the calendar.

Computers

There are several options for computer access during the 10-week program:
1) bring your own computer
2) use a department computer (your mentor will alert you to the availability in your assigned department)
3) utilize computer labs located throughout campus

Housing
Your apartment complex is called SUV (Schilletter-University Village). We will assign you to an apartment before you arrive. Rooming lists will be sent via email. The Web site has photos and layouts of the two-bedroom units. One bedroom has a double bed, the other bedroom has two singles--interns will determine who gets double beds and who gets single beds. In addition to what you see on the Web, all apartments have linens and towels. You do not need to provide any of this. There are two desks in each unit. Bringing your own furniture is discouraged. The units are furnished with plenty of furniture, and there isn't a lot of extra floor space for additional items. Coin-operated laundry facilities are available in a separate building in the apartment complex. IMPORTANT NOTE: All units are non-smoking!

Move-in Day: All apartment keys will be given to the first person to arrive in Ames (to be determined). You will simply check in with that person upon arrival. Watch your email for additional information.

Our program does not provide funding for off-site housing.  We believe part of the overall SULI experience is the growth experience provided by having our student interns live together in on-campus apartments during our internships.  We feel the sharing of information and the camaraderie that comes from after-hours interactions is a valuable take-away from our program, a take-away that can last a lifetime.  We do not mandate that students live in provided housing during their internship, but our program will not fund off-site housing.

Internet Access
There is one jack in each apartment for a DSL modem (issued by the housing staff). You may want to visit with your roommates prior to arrival. If someone is willing to bring a wireless router, it will eliminate running cables to each computer.

Iowa State University
To learn more about our beautiful campus, click on the Iowa State University Web site. 

Laboratory Supplies 
Laboratory coats and safety glasses are required for work in the laboratory. The SULI program will pay for these expenses.

Living in Ames
The City of Ames has much to offer--parks, transportation, events, and more!!

Maps
Driving Directions
 to Schilletter-University Village

Schilletter-University Village complex map (SULI interns will be assigned units next to each other)

Orientation on Tuesday, May 28, will be in 301 Spedding. To locate Spedding Hall, go to campus maps, select building: Spedding. It's on the north side of campus.  It should be easy to find on the map. 

Meal Plan
Your apartment has a fully equipped kitchen (appliances, pots, pans, utensils, and dinnerware). This has been the preferred choice for past interns. However, if you would like to purchase an ISU dining plan, you can log onto AccessPlus to select a plan that works for your schedule. AccessPlus requires an ISU Network ID and password--which will be issued to each of you on orientation day. Before purchasing a dining plan, please locate the dining venues that are open during the summer (not all are in operation), and see where they are located in relation to your laboratory. For additional information (or assistance in purchasing a plan) contact Charles Braun, 515-294-1929. Meal plans are not provided by Ames Lab nor does Ames Lab have a cafeteria.

Orientation
Report to 301 Spedding Hall on the morning of May 28. You will not have parking passes for campus, so give yourself time to get here on foot or bicycle or bus.  A campus map can be found in the "Maps" section above. Bring vehicle information (if you would like on-campus parking) and one form of government-issued identification (i.e. drivers license). Orientation will take all day (lunch will be provided). You will complete employment forms, computer access forms, meet your mentors during lunch, get parking permits, and attend basic lab training.

Apartment Parking
Designated parking stalls are available at the SUV apartment complex. You will get permits on orientation day (you won't get a ticket during the move-in weekend). Please bring vehicle information to the orientation meeting--make, model, and license plate number. Also bring a valid drivers license.

Pay / Stipend
All SULI interns will receive a stipend of $500 per week during the 10-week internship period. You will be paid by Iowa State University.  Your first check will arrive on or about June 30 and your second will arrive at the end of the program so plan accordingly. Stipend forms (and other important documents) will be completed at our orientation meeting. You must bring one form of government-issued identification (i.e. drivers license). 

SULI participants are not Ames Lab (or ISU) employees; therefore, students will not receive a W2 at income tax time.  Each will receive a 1099-MISC (sent to the permanent address indicated on your application).   The stipend is taxable income.  Please check with your tax preparer if you have questions about filing your tax return.

Preprogram Survey 
Go to the educationlink Web site and complete the preprogram survey. It isn't due until after you arrive on campus, but it would be in your best interest to do as much as you can before your arrival. This site also contains important information about how to keep a journal and how to write a research paper. 

You will be required under the SULI program to make an oral or poster presentation, complete at 1500-3000 word research project report, a general audience abstract, and a one-page peer review of another SULI intern’s talk or poster prior to the end of the program.  Feel free to ask questions when you get here. 

Public Transportation
The Ames bus system (CyRide) provides a cost-effective way to get back and forth to the Ames Laboratory from your apartment. Take advantage of this unique opportunity!

Reimbursement for Travel
The maximum amount for travel reimbursement is $500. You will make your own travel arrangements. You can move in as early as Sat., May 25. This is a federal program, therefore, federal policies apply to travel.You must contact Deb (515-294-9557) by April 12 with your travel plans. We need to know your departure and return cities, method of travel, flight numbers, etc. (This will help us coordinate shuttles to and from the Des Moines airport and aparment key distribution.) The program will reimburse round trip airfare or round trip mileage only--no hotels or meals during travel status. When the round trip is completed (for most of you that will be on or around Aug. 3), the reimbursement forms will be submitted. You should get your reimbursement check within a couple weeks after the program ends. Contact Deb with questions.

Shuttle 
Airport shuttle schedules will be emailed to air travelers prior to arrival.

What do I bring with me
Bring yourself and your clothes. Everything from linen to kitchenware is provided with the apartments--this also includes computer hookup and cable TV. Computers are optional (see computer section).

What to Wear
The dress code is casual during the summer (jeans, khakis, shorts, capris). Ask your mentor if your work environment has additional requirements (closed-toed shoes, etc.) Lab coats and safety glasses will be provided, if required. The poster presentation will require business attire, so plan accordingly. 

What we DO NOT provide 
- Meals. You are on your own for all meals except those we designate as provided. Apartments have kitchens, pots, pans, dishes, etc. Meal plans are available (see above).
- Transportation in and around Ames. City buses are available (see Public Transportation for maps and bus routes).
- Payment for any outside activities, such as ball games, canoe trips, etc. will be the responsibility of each student.
- Arrangement of travel to Ames. You must make your own flight or driving arrangements (remember to confirm plans with Deb). 
- Membership in Iowa State University fitness facilities--students can purchase their own passes for this, however. 

What will my weekly schedule include
Forty hours a week is the normal work week. It will be up to you and your mentor to determine your schedule. Also, we are planning a weekly progress meeting and possibly some "out-of-laboratory" activities. In addition to your research experience, we try to enjoy some leisure activities.

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