Module 2: Rackham Materials
RDIFP Student-Identified Internship Materials
Doctoral applicants to the Rackham Doctoral Intern Fellowship Program (RDIFP) Student-Identified Internships must prepare application materials specific to this program. In addition to a resume and departmental approval form, applicants will be asked for four additional materials: 1) an internship description, 2) a rationale narrative, 3) an offer letter from the internship site, and 4) contact information for the staff member who will be the site internship supervisor.
Student-Identified Internship FAQs |
What should be included in an internship description? |
It should include a detailed description of the internship project, including its scope, and anticipated deliverables. Many students submit internship descriptions in the style of job advertisements similar in format and content to this example from Stanford University Links to an external site. or this template from the University of San Diego Links to an external site.. |
What is a rationale? How long should it be? |
A rationale is a narrative describing the reason for the internship, how it relates to the student’s research, scholarship, or fields of interest, as well as the specific ways in which the internship will enhance the student’s career goals and develop transferable skills. Discussion of previous participation in other career exploration programs is highly encouraged. There is no word minimum or maximum for a rationale. Past student-interns have submitted rationales in the range of 300 to 500 words. |
Do I have to receive an internship offer before applying for the student-identified internship? |
Yes, you must secure an internship offer to apply for the RDIFP student-identified internship program. If your internship employer is not able to provide an offer letter before Rackham's deadline, you should submit as much information as you have about the internship. |
Are there specific components to an internship site offer letter? |
An offer letter from the internship site should confirm that the position was offered to you, the purpose and scope of the position, the duration of the position, and any stipend, salary, or hourly wage that would come with the position. A copy of an offer letter from the internship site is sufficient. |
Does the RDIFP have any sample rationales or other materials to review? |
At this time, the RDIFP does not have sample student-identified internship application materials to share. You can review this rubric Links to an external site. to see how applications are evaluated by the RDIFP team. |
If you have questions related to your specific application, please contact the RDIFP team at rack-Intern@umich.edu.