Tips for applicants

Use the information provided below to prepare a competitive application for the Banner-ASU Neuroscience Scholars summer training program.

Personal statement (350 words or less)

In 350 words or less, introduce yourself and explain why you should be a Neuroscience Scholar. Your personal statement is the most important part of your application because it helps us get to know you in your own words.

To generate ideas for what you will write about, try asking yourself these questions:*

• Why do I want to participate in the program?
• Why might I be a stronger candidate than other applicants?
• What is unique and distinctive about me?
• What are my career goals?
• How would Banner Research and/or the Biodesign Institute at ASU benefit by selecting me?

*These are suggestions to help you get started. You are not required to answer them.

Before you submit your personal statement, ask someone you trust to proofread it and provide feedback. Poor grammar or typos overshadow a good message.

Requesting and submitting recommendation letters

Choose two references who can discuss your character and provide a positive evaluation of your academic and professional aptitude. A good recommendation letter will provide new insight and perspective about you. This might be a teacher/professor, coach, counselor, religious leader, employer or supervisor from an extracurricular activity, etc. At least one of the two letters must come from a teacher/professor (any subject). Letters should not come from friends, parents, peers or relatives.

Give your references enough time to write and submit your letters. It is your responsibility to ensure your letters are submitted in a timely manner via the electronic submission process. Applications are not considered complete if recommendation letters are not submitted by due date.

Once you enter the name and contact information for a reference, click “Send E-mail Request” and a recommendation letter request is automatically generated via e-mail to each of your references. The e-mail contains instructions for submitting a letter electronically through a unique link that will attach their letter to your application. If your reference does not receive the e-mail, you have the option to resend it.