Summer Research Program FAQ

Who is eligible? 
All CMC students who wish to work on projects falling under the SRP guidelines and who will be returning to CMC in Fall 2025 are eligible for the summer program. This includes students studying abroad in the Fall.

I’m not a CMC student. Can I participate?
SRP is a CMC program, and as such only CMC students are eligible to apply.  In rare circumstances, we may consider applications from other 5C undergraduates if the following conditions are met: (1) the non-CMC student has previously worked as an RA for the CMC faculty member supervising the project; (2) the non-CMC student is applying to work on a research team that is majority CMC; and (3) no CMC applicant is able to fill the role. If you are a non-CMC student and think you may satisfy these criteria, please reach out to the SRP faculty director before applying.

Do more SRP students work on faculty-designed projects or on self-designed projects?
Most SRP participants work on faculty-designed projects. However, we welcome applications of either type, and each summer SRP includes a mix of students working on faculty-designed projects and students working on self-designed projects.

How long should the cover letter be?
We expect that students will write between 1000 – 2000 words. The cover letter should be long enough to convey in detail the necessary information.

Do I have to commit for the entire 8 weeks of the program, from May 27 – July 18, 2025?
Yes. However, if the research requires fieldwork or archival research, limited travel away from campus may be permitted.

What is the time commitment?
Students are expected to commit 40 hours/week, excepting CMC holidays.

Can I do the program part-time?
No.

Can I work with non-CMC professors?
No.

Where does the SRP take place?
The SRP will take place on campus at CMC.

Is participation in the weekly seminars and other program events mandatory?
Yes.

Can I choose to do the project elsewhere other than at CMC (e.g., if I or my faculty supervisor will be out of town)?
No, SRP 2025 will be on-campus. However, if the research requires fieldwork or archival research, limited travel away from campus may be permitted.

Can I accept another summer opportunity during the 8 weeks of the SRP? 
No. The SRP is full-time, so you cannot accept another opportunity at the same time.

Who should I email if I have more questions?
Please email srp@cmc.edu if you have additional questions.