Frequently Asked Questions
What information is needed for the internship/shadowing application?
An application must be submitted via our online REDCap form. For required information, see below.
How is a shadowing experience different from an internship?
A lab/research shadowing experience is appropriate if the individual will be doing no work, will be constantly supervised and will simply be observing his/her supervisor. Shadows may perform minimal mirroring of experiments, techniques, etc. Shadows are not required to complete a final project.
Can a person not enrolled in an educational program complete an academic internship?
No, interns must be enrolled in a course of instruction that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate. Individuals interested in an internship to find out what graduate school or lab work is all about should seek out a paid position, such as a lab tech position.
Can a person not enrolled in an educational program complete a shadowing experience?
Yes, individuals not currently enrolled in an academic program may complete a shadowing experience.
Can a person under 18 complete and internship or shadowing experience?
Yes. Interns/shadows under 18 have additional requirements including submission of the Parental Consent Form and the Adult Supervisor’s Training Compliance Form. Additionally, the Department Administrator is responsible for completing the Background Check Process. Interns/shadows under 18 may not start until all requirements are completed.
The intern/shadow is not “in the system”; what about liability insurance?
Everyone in the building is automatically covered under the University’s general liability insurance.
Can Visiting Student/Scholar and International Medical Student Intern or Shadow?
Visiting student/scholars are not eligible for clinical shadowing, clinical observerships, clinical internships or other clinical experiences. They are eligible to shadow or intern for research only with no clinical component experience.
How does the intern/shadow get a University ID?
Forward the approved application to the ID office at mcidcard@ur.rochester.edu
How does the intern/shadow arrange for a parking permit?
The intern/shadow must visit the parking office with (1) their University ID and (2) their approved application form.
Does the intern/shadow have to pay for parking?
Yes, the intern/shadow will be required to pay for parking.
Can the department pay a stipend to the intern?
No, interns may only receive payments for reimbursements for incidental costs incurred related to completing the internship (e.g., parking). Unpaid interns may not receive payment in the form of wages or a stipend.
How does the Department arrange for the health assessment?
See section 'Process to arrange for Health Assessment through University Health Service' below
How often does an intern need a health assessment?
Health assessments and PPD testing are required annually.
How does the intern/shadow get an email address (if applicable)?
The Departmental Administrator can request an account by sending an email to HelpDesk_ISD@URMC.Rochester.ed.
How does the intern obtain housing (if necessary)?
The intern may contact Residential Life to discuss housing options.
Can a University of Rochester intern receive academic credit for the internship?
University of Rochester undergraduate interns may be able to register for independent study. The required Instructor's Faculty Permission Code (IPC) must be obtained from the SMD Advisor. The Advisor obtains the code from the SMD Registrar, Tracy Pezzimenti.
The intern and SMD Advisor may refer to https://www.rochester.edu/college/ccas/handbook/IndependentSt.html for useful information. Questions not answered here may be directed to the College Center for Advising Services at (585) 275-2354.
Can a non-University of Rochester intern receive academic credit for the internship?
Non-University of Rochester undergraduate interns cannot receive University of Rochester credit for the internship. Interns may check with their home institution to determine whether credit at their home institution is available/applicable.
Can graduate student interns register for Visiting Student in Residence?
Visiting graduate students enrolled in biomedical and health sciences PhD programs may be able to register for Visiting Student in Residence through the SMD, particularly if the student needs access to health insurance and the experience will be greater than 8 weeks. Please contact Tracy Pezzimenti to determine if this would be more appropriate than applying to the internship program.
*For students who are transitioning between programs, where should the Statement of Enrollment (SOE) come from?
Graduating high school seniors must obtain a SOE from their post- secondary institution. Undergraduate, graduate, and other students who are seeking an internship while transitioning between programs must provide a SOE from both their current and future institutions.