What is the RCP Summer Scholars Program?
The RCP Summer Scholars Program partners U of MN graduate and professional students with local government agencies in Minnesota to collaborate on research and technical assistance projects that help to advance community sustainability, equity, and resilience.
Through the program, students collaborate with local government staff and community leaders on a high-priority project. Projects are proposed by our local government partners and can cover a wide range of issues that impact community resilience—from housing, transportation, and economic development to climate adaptation, health equity, and environmental stewardship. Through the program, RCP Scholars have an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world project, and to network with professionals and community leaders in their field.
RCP Scholars are hired as graduate research assistants for a 25–50% appointment over the summer (May–August). Although students are not eligible to earn academic credit for their involvement, the experience may be able to fulfill an internship, applied practice, or other academic requirement in their degree program.
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Eligibility
Applications are accepted from graduate and professional students at the Twin CIties, Duluth, and Rochester campuses from all fields and disciplines, although specific skills or training may be required for some projects. RCP Scholars are selected through a competitive process, and must be
- a current University of Minnesota graduate or professional student who has completed at least one (1) semester of study in their degree program,
- enrolled for the upcoming fall semester with active status and in good academic standing, and
- available to regularly work 10–20 hours per week during summer term (mid-May through August).