NIH/NCI Summer Internship - A huge catalyst for BS/MD program?

[rajayya]

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I was told that NIH/NCI summer internship program plays a significant role in the essay/interview process. How much this is true? Is it worthwhile for me to pursue the research for 2-3 months if I get selected? I have done lots of research work in Biotech/miRNA etc. I know for sure that I will get selected.

I am from Florida. I am looking into in-state schools (UM, USF). Both does not care much about anything.

I am seriously looking into:

PSU
Baylor

Please help. Thanks

 

[schrizto]

So you want to go to a BS/MD program. That doesn't mean that doing the NIH summer internship will get you in. Doing research in high school is a hook, but you're really better off participating in it for more than 2-3 months.

Also, the NIH program is selective in that you tell them your interests and past experience and the PIs pick you. If you don't have much to say, your chances of landing a position are lower than someone who appears well versed in a subject.