EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program - Space Weather Communications
The NOAA Educational Partnership Program (EPP) with Minority Serving institutions (MSI) Undergraduate Scholarship provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to study a wide range of science, engineering, mathematical, computer, technology and social science disciplines related to NOAA’s mission and objectives. Scholarships are awarded competitively to rising juniors or 4th year students in a 5-year program, who are full time students attending accredited Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) within the United States and U.S. territories.
The scholarship is awarded for two years of undergraduate study in fields related to NOAA’s mission critical sciences. Scholars are required to participate in two internships at approved NOAA offices and sites during the summers prior to their senior year. During the internships portion of the award, the scholar is provided opportunities for hands-on research at participating NOAA facilities. Scholars receive financial assistance for two academic years, a bi-weekly stipend and housing allowance during summer internships.
Eligibility
An applicant for the EPP/MSI USP must:
- be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.
- be enrolled full-time at an accredited MSI within the United States or U.S. territory.
- be majoring in a field of study related to NOAA's missions and goals.
- have and maintain at least a 3.2 cumulative grade point average per academic term on a 4.0 scale in all completed undergraduate courses and in their major field of study. Current community college students may apply if accepted and will transfer to a 4-year institution in the fall term following the application period, and will have sufficient credit hours transferred to qualify for junior class academic status.
Benefits
The EPP/MSI scholar receives:
- An EPP/MSI USP scholarship of up to $45,000 is awarded to successful scholars. The award includes housing allowances, internship stipends for two experiences, allowable travel expenses over the two years of the appointment and costs associated with attendance at Program-approved conferences or workshops.
- Financial assistance during 9-month academic year to support college costs.
- A bi-weekly stipend and housing allowance during the summer internships. The budget includes a $700 per week stipend for the summer internship, a housing allowance of $300 per week, and round trip transportation to the internship site.
Space Weather Communications Opportunity
Most people know that weather satellites monitor the weather on Earth, but not as many know that NOAA also monitors the "weather" in space. “Space weather” describes conditions resulting from solar activity that impact humans and technologies in space and on the ground. NOAA space weather observations program develops communications, education, and engagement materials about our satellites and about space weather to diverse audiences.
Duties & Responsibilities
The student will be assigned a project related to communications about space weather observations that is related to the student's demonstrated level and concentration of study. Examples include contributions to textual descriptions, graphics, video, media, or educational curriculum aids. At the completion of the internship, the student is expected to have acquired basic expertise in communication planning activities, and educational outreach related to space weather. The student will document reports, communications, and other materials and give a presentation to NESDIS prior to the end of the internship. It is optional, but recommended that the student attend a professional workshop or conference to discuss their achievement.
Special Skills/Training
Demonstrated interest in science education, technical communications, graphic or video arts, or related fields and/or the physical sciences with strong communications skills through undergraduate courses of study.
Expected Outcomes
Develop materials explaining aspects related to the source of space weather, its impact on modern society, and/or NOAA's role in monitoring space weather for the benefit of the nation. Develop skills in communicating technical information to diverse audiences.
Guidance & Supervision
Student will meet regularly with mentor will work with the Space Weather Observations program communications team for technical direction developing materials. If the COVID-19 pandemic continues to require office closure, this internship can be conducted remotely.
Please be sure to apply via the NOAA Education Office via the link provided by NLT January 31, 2022, and email Dena Joseph at dena.joseph@noaa.gov to express your interest in Space Weather.