SIParCS Tips for References

So you’re applying for a SIParCS Internship for Summer 2021 and you’re prepping your materials: making sure your letter of interest clearly addresses all five questions, polishing your CV/Resume, downloading your unofficial school transcripts.  What am I missing?

In addition to the required application materials, you must submit the contact information for TWO (2) references. Not sure where to start? Here’s a helpful article about Asking for Letters of Recommendation.

Q: Who can be a reference?
A: While we strongly encourage submitting names of faculty who can speak to your academic record, we also accept references from prior supervisors or mentors who can speak to your work ethic and motivation to be a SIParCS intern.

Q: What happens after I submit the names and contact info for my 2 references?
A: Shortly after you submit the references submission form, we will email your references with a link and directions how to submit the letter on your behalf. From the above article, make sure you ask early (before going on Thanksgiving or winter break) and follow-up to make sure they submit letters by the deadline.

Q: I’m not ready to submit my application through Workday yet.  When should I submit my references’ contact information?
A: If you know you’re applying to the SIParCS program, go ahead and submit your references’ contact information as soon as you can to give your references enough time to write a great letter for you.  This ensures they receive our email with instructions on how to submit a letter.

Q: What is the deadline to submit a letter?
A: As an applicant, the application and reference submission deadline is January 8 at 4pm Mountain Time.  References have an additional week until January 18, 2021 to submit a letter of reference.

Q: A student listed me as a reference, what file format do you want my letter to be?
A: .pdf is preferred but we also accept .doc, .docx, .txt .  Submit your letter of recommendation by January 18. Thank you for supporting students in their professional and academic goals.

For those who have already applied or submitted your letters of reference, thank you! Please consider passing this email on to other students who may be interested in an internship at NCAR this summer.  International Students who are eligible to work in the U.S. are welcomed and encouraged to apply.

As always, if you have any questions about the program or the application process, you can reach us at siparcs@ucar.edu or 303-497-1288.

– the SIParCS Team