2024 Spring: Applications open till February 19! Apply NOW!
FAQs about this program!
- How flexible is the experience in terms of time commitment?
The time commitment will vary week-to-week, but generally you are expected to join one 30-45 minute weekly active learning meeting to discuss a topic relevant to the craft of science writing, as well as spend approx. 3hrs per week on gathering story ideas, interviewing, and writing or editing your articles.
- What type/aspects of science writing/communication do you cover?
As part of our learning-focused meetings we cover different aspects of effective science communication, including a review of the media landscape and the newspaper writing, differences between institutional communications and journalism, writing and self-editing as well as communicating science on social media.
- Would I work with a team or individually on projects?
You will be assigned a primary mentor and editor for the duration of the program. However, this arrangement is flexible and you’ll be able to work with other mentors on a project basis and participate in group discussions with mentors and the rest of your student cohort.
- Do I get to participate in work on multiple projects?
Yes. On average, our mentees write 2-4 stories while in the program.
- What skills would I gain to make me competitive as an applicant in this field?
Clear, effective communication is an essential skill in our rapidly changing world, and communicating complex science topics accurately and engagingly is a skill set that will set you apart in a variety of professional industries. If you want to continue your path in a field related to science communication (including science journalism or medical writing), having a portfolio of strong writing samples is critical for getting your foot in the door. For those who want to pursue their careers in medical or pharma industries or academia, skills gained during the internship will help you become a more persuasive writer and communicator and help articulate your ideas and their impact clearly – which is essential for securing a job offer or getting a strong score on a grant application.
- Would this allow me to create material or a product that I could use in a portfolio?
Yes. At the end of the internship you will have at least two strong writing samples published on UPMC and University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences Blog and will be able to list the internship on your LinkedIn profile.
- What prior experience do I need to participate in this opportunity?
No prior experience in science communication is necessary, though we consider it a plus. As part of your application, you will be asked to succinctly explain why you are interested in science writing and outline your goals for this mentorship opportunity. Additionally, you will be asked to write a short summary (500 characters or less) of your research project. You should consider this as a taste of what to expect during the program.
- What is the deadline to apply?
February 19, 2024!
- Are there other ways for me to gain experience or get involved with your efforts?
If you are unsure whether your schedule will allow participating in this program for 10 weeks during the Spring semester, get in touch with Deepti Ramadoss who can help facilitate more flexible arrangements.
