Viterbi Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE)
The USC Viterbi Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) is an 8-week summer residential research program at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. The program provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects with academic-industry collaboration under the mentorship of Viterbi faculty and PhD students. Positive consideration will be given to students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. The program allows participants to develop skill sets in research towards their long-term career goals. Participants also will engage in professional network opportunities and build relationships that will expand their academic and professional horizons. The overarching goal of SURE is to help students develop an understanding of research in engineering disciplines, and preparing students with skills for successful academic careers in engineering graduate programs.
Program Benefits
- Learn about cutting-edge research under the guidance of world-renowned USC faculty researchers and mentorship from PhD students.
- Participate in weekly professional development workshops to enhance your skill sets as a researcher. Topics include delivering effective presentations, designing technical posters, developing best practices in research, and applying to PhD programs.
- Attend professional networking events and research site visits.
- Explore the vibrant city of Los Angeles through weekend social activities.
- Build lifelong connections with other SURE students who share your passion for research.
Program Eligibility
- Undergraduate students enrolled at a U.S. higher education institution.
- U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, or DACA recipient currently located in the U.S.
- Strong academic background (GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended) in the following majors: engineering, math, computer science, or hard science (biology, chemistry, physics).
- Must be available to participate full time (40 hours/week) for the entire duration of the program (June 12 – August 4, 2023).
Application Materials
- Transcripts (official or student portal generated transcripts are acceptable)
- Resume (1 page maximum)
- Statement of Purpose (Provide a brief statement on your research interests, academic and professional goals, and how the SURE program will help you achieve those goals)
- 1 Letter of Recommendation (academic reference preferred)
Questions? Email us at sure@vase.usc.edu
In partnership with
News Release: USC Viterbi and Amazon Announce Joint Summer Research Program for Undergraduates
What's Included
- $5,200 stipend for 8-week program
- Campus housing
- Travel to and from Los Angeles
- Summer health insurance
- Educational and social activities
- End-of-program poster session
Important Dates
Application Launch & Info Session
Thursday, December 1, 2022
Application Deadline
Friday, February 10, 2023
Selection Notifications
Mid-March - early April
Program Dates
June 12 - August 4, 2023
Participants will arrive on Saturday, June 10 and depart on Saturday, August 5.
Janelle Baker, Stanford University, 2022 SURE FellowThe biggest, brightest highlight of the SURE program were the people that I was so lucky to meet. My fellow SURE participants and I grew so close, and we were like a little family by the time the program ended. We developed such great friendships, which was such a rewarding experience in addition to the actual research and academic skills I gained from participating in this program!
Research Opportunities
Review the list of available research opportunities for SURE participants
SURE 2022 Fellows
Meet last year's cohort of SURE Fellows and learn about their research
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about the SURE program
Questions? Email us at sure@vase.usc.edu
SURE Information Session
Viterbi Academic Services and Viterbi Graduate Admission representatives held a general information session for all prospective SURE applicants. This session covers information about USC Viterbi, SURE program components, application process, and selection criteria. Click the link below to view recording.
Nicole Nakamoto, USC, 2022 SURE FellowI was able to learn so much through this program, but I think the most important learning outcomes were gaining an understanding of how I can familiarize myself with a new project and unfamiliar concepts. Through this program, I was put into a position where I had to learn a lot in a short amount of time and it allowed me to greatly expand my boundaries.
Published on October 19th, 2022
Last updated on January 25th, 2023
