I’ve started my RSI application and it’s going well. I just took a look at the SIMR application and it came to my attention that the admission is skewed to accept people from Bay Area. I’m from the Midwest and I’m wondering if it is even worth it to apply? Like what will my chances be? I’m a 4.0 student, strong academics, lab experience, and some research.
Other than RSI and SIMR (maybe) what other prestigious summer research programs are there? I’ve heard of Simons but is it worth it?
Hi, former SIMR intern here (I am also not from the Bay Area). Like you, I was discouraged to apply, but I did so anyways, and it has been the best decision that I’ve made. As far as academics go, don’t be too worried. During orientation, the founders of the program made it clear that they don’t focus that much on stats. It’s the essays that will make you or break you. They mentioned that they looked for specific evidence that showed that you were inclined to help others, since that’s the main purpose of biomedical research. So yes, it may seem like a shot in the dark, but that doesn’t mean you won’t make it. Hope I helped!