SOAR

SOAR

SOAR

Student Opportunities in Applied Research

What is the SOAR program?

For more than 25 years, the SOAR. summer internship program has enriched the professional network, mentorship, and sponsorship of enterprising student leaders by preparing them for successful and significant STEM careers in intelligence, defense, and space. Every year, ARL hires highly motivated undergraduate students committed to national security for paid summer internships which include housing, a meal plan, and transportation. Formerly known as the Open D.O.O.R. program, SOAR is one of the most prestigious, merit-based career development programs for student leaders in the United States today.

What makes a competitive candidate?

We seek ambitious, introspective, and optimistic students who exhibit curiosity, outstanding self-awareness, and creative ability complemented by leadership experience and strong academic records.

Students who identify with a group that is historically underrepresented in STEM, including but not limited to, Black, Indigenous/Native American, Latinx/Hispanic, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

How are applicants selected?

The SOAR program selection committee assesses candidates based on their  self-awareness, research experience, professional demeanor, intellectual curiosity, résumé, and unofficial transcript. Applicants must also provide at least one (1) letter of recommendation that details their demonstrated commitment to the advancement of diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging.

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Applicants must be United States citizens.

ARL is committed to our employee’s health and well-being by supporting Penn State initiatives, local health officials, and government leaders in preventing COVID-19 in the workplace.

Our employees whose work or research can be done remotely, from home, are doing so. We have also given the opportunity of a flexible work schedule to assist our employees who have other obligations to consider. For those whose work or research requires them to be in our laboratories, offices, or on campus, we are following all protocols necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including mandatory mask training, strict safety procedures, and a network of contacts for reporting any ill-feeling symptoms.

As new employees join our workforce, the above guidelines apply. 

You can be confident that we will maintain our vigilant enforcement of all COVID-19 protocols in our workplace to ensure the health and safety of everyone.

Our strength comes from our people… we are a diverse group of professionals who hail from all over this great Nation, with all kinds of experience and expertise. As a team, we will get through this together with patience, diligence, vigilance, and resilience.