Summer Undergraduate Research or Internship Experience in Acoustics

About Acoustics and SURIEA

What is acoustics?

Acoustics is the science of sound. There are many kinds of sound and many ways that sound affects our lives. If you study acoustics, you might study the production, control, transmission, reception, or effects of sound on people, animals or even objects. Acousticians include engineers, physicists, speech and hearing scientists, architects, biologists, psychologists, linguists, mathematicians, oceanographers, computer scientists, and musicians. Learn more about the technical areas here: https://exploresound.org/technical-committees/

Do I have to be a member of the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) to take part in the SURIEA program?
No, you do not need to be an ASA member to participate in the program.

Eligibility

Can I apply if my school semester ends after the program start date?
Yes, you can still apply. Be sure to mention your semester end date in your application.

Can I apply if my school semester starts before the program ends?
Yes, you can still apply. Be sure to mention your semester start date in your application.

I have other commitments this summer, can I still apply?

The program requires 30–40 hours per week. If you have significant commitments (e.g., a job or summer school), you may not be a good fit.

Do I have to be based in the US?
Yes, applicants must be based in the US or US territories and eligible to work in the US without restrictions.

If I’m graduating in Spring 2025, can I still apply?
Yes, graduating seniors may apply. Let us know if you plan to start a new program and when it begins.

Application Process

When is the application deadline?

Application review begins February 5, 2025. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

What are the student selection criteria?
Your application will be reviewed based on your goals and interests, as well as what you will bring to the program.

Do I need to send a transcript?
No, but you should note any acoustics-related coursework in your application.

Do I need to send a letter of recommendation?

Yes, a letter of recommendation is required. Your letter should be written by an instructor, employer, mentor, or someone who can speak knowledgeably about your academic experience, career goals, interests, work ethic and/or relevant skills. You will need to have a letter of recommendation sent to summer-experience@acoustics.org.

Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee to apply or participate.

Program Details

What are the program dates?

The core program takes place May 25 – Aug 1, 2025, however there will be flexible start and end dates. This means, depending on which mentor you are matched with and your availability, you may be able to start as early as May 18 and/or end as late as Aug 9, 2025. You may start and/or end virtually, but you should expect to be in-person between May 30 – Aug 1.

Where does the program take place?
Locations depend on the mentor match and can be anywhere in the US. The short course will take place in Itasca, Illinois.

Does the program take place in person or virtually?
SURIEA is primarily an in-person program. You are expected to attend on-site activities between May 30 and August 1, 2025. The program also includes virtual components like weekly cohort meetings and professional development sessions.

Is housing provided?

The program provides a $3,700 housing stipend. In general, you will be free to choose where to live. You mentors and SURIEA organizers will help you locate safe, secure, and affordable housing.

Are travel funds provided?

You will receive funds to travel to and from your internship site as well as funds to travel to and from the short course site. You will also receive travel funds to attend at least one future ASA meeting.

What will I do in the program?
The internship consists of three distinct elements: classroom sessions, hands-on training in research, and academic/career development. Our mentors work on many different aspects of acoustics! You will learn how to conduct acoustics research, how to analyze acoustic data, and how acoustic standards are used in industry. You will also work one-on-one with your mentors and contribute meaningfully to an ongoing research project or industry application. Check out this video to hear from past SURIEA participants!

What if I have no prior research experience?
That’s okay! The program includes training, mentorship, and feedback to support your growth.

How is the mentor match decided?

You will be paired with a researcher or industry professional based on your interests and mentor availability. You will meet each mentor virtually to learn about their projects and will then rank them. You will then be matched to one of your top three choices prior to the start of the program.

Do I need to present at an ASA meeting?
No, presenting is optional, but you must attend an ASA meeting. Your registration fees will be waived fees and travel funding will be provided.

Post-Acceptance Information

When will I know if I’ve been accepted?
Notifications will be sent by the end of February 2025.

What do I need to do if accepted?
Accepted students will receive detailed next steps, including housing support and program preparation materials.

Contact Information

What if I have more questions?
Feel free to email us at summer-experience@acoustics.org—we’re happy to help!