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I don’t have any marine science experience. Can I still apply?
If you have an interest in marine science and have completed some basic STEM coursework, then you are a qualified candidate for this program. We recommend visiting our research webpage (link to mote.org/research) to learn more about what we do and what your interests may be.

Do I need to know how to swim, be SCUBA certified or be comfortable on boats?
No, we have many research experiences that take place in the lab or are land based. For most programs, you won’t need to get in the water for any reason.

I am a person with a disability. Can I still participate?
People of all abilities can participate in the program. If you have any questions about our accessibility, please contact us.

Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?
Anyone that can speak to your work ethic, professional skills or academic background would be an appropriate recommender. Typically supervisors, managers, professors, TA’s, coaches, activity leaders can provide necessary information about your skills to our reviewers.

What is the selection process and notification timeline?
Reviewers begin going through applications once the deadline has closed. Application review typically takes 2 weeks to a month to complete. Reviewers from each program evaluate the applications that selected their specific program as either a first or second choice. You may be considered for other programs than those you selected based on your general areas of interest. We will notify applicants whether they are selected or not so if you have not been contacted, your application is still under consideration. Please be sure to check your spam folder for missed notifications.

Where is the internship located? 
Mote’s main campus is located on City Island in Sarasota, Florida (1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy). Mote’s Aquaculture Park is also located in Sarasota but at an offsite facility (12300 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota). Mote’s International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration is located in Summerland Key, Florida (24244 Overseas Hwy). Placement depends on the research program for which interns are selected.

Can I apply for the College Internship Program, NSF REU and Mote REU Programs for the summer?
Yes, you can apply for multiple internship programs for the same season (REU programs only open for summer season).

I need to complete a project for school. Can I do that as part of my internship?
If you need to complete a project for school, please contact intern@mote.org with a description of the project or requirements you need to meet, and with which Mote program you want to conduct the project.